When a computer prints a report on paper, what is this physical output commonly called?

Introduction / Context:
Computers can present output in two broad forms: on screen and on paper. On screen output is temporary and can be changed quickly, while printed output provides a permanent physical record. Computer awareness questions often ask for the standard terms used to distinguish between these two types of output.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question considers a report printed by a computer on paper.
• We are asked what this printed output is called.
• Options include soft copy, hard copy and several distractors.
• We assume standard terminology used in basic computer literacy courses.

Concept / Approach:
Soft copy refers to output that appears on a screen, such as on a computer monitor, tablet or smartphone. It is not physically tangible and can be edited easily. Hard copy refers to output that has been printed on paper or other physical media, such as reports, bills and charts. When a computer prints a report, the sheet of paper with the information on it is a hard copy of that report.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Consider where the output is located. In this case, it is on paper because the report has been printed. Step 2: Recall that the term soft copy is used for on screen output such as text and images shown on a monitor. Step 3: Hard copy is defined as printed output on a physical medium like paper, which you can hold, file or distribute. Step 4: Since the question describes a printed report, it matches the definition of a hard copy. Step 5: Printing mode and program output file are not standard terms describing the physical form of output. Step 6: Display copy would describe something shown on the screen and is not a commonly used phrase in this context. Step 7: Therefore, the correct choice is hard copy.

Verification / Alternative check:
Computer fundamentals books typically include definitions such as: Soft copy is the output that is displayed on a monitor, while hard copy is the output that is printed on paper. Examples are often given in the form of printed invoices or examination mark sheets. This repeated explanation confirms that a printed report produced by a computer is called a hard copy.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Soft copy is explicitly associated with screen based output and does not involve printing. Printing mode describes a setting or process, not the finished output. Program output file is a file stored electronically, not a physical document. Display copy suggests visible output but is not standard terminology. As a result, these options do not correctly name a printed report.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes mix up soft copy and hard copy because both come from the same data. To avoid confusion, focus on the medium: if you can physically hold it, it is hard copy; if you can only see it on a screen, it is soft copy. This simple rule works well for exam questions and practical situations.

Final Answer:
A report printed by a computer on paper is called a hard copy.