Prior to 1970, all data was stored in separate files, which were mostly stored on reels of magnetic tape.

Solution (By Examveda Team)

Option A: True
This option suggests that prior to 1970, all data was stored in separate files, mostly on reels of magnetic tape. This statement is largely accurate. Before the advent of relational database management systems (RDBMS) in the 1970s, data storage and management were typically handled through separate files and hierarchical or networked database models. Magnetic tape reels were commonly used for data storage due to their capacity and cost-effectiveness compared to other storage media of that era. Organizations stored data in flat files or hierarchical databases, which required specialized programs to access and manage the data.

Option B: False
This option suggests that data was not stored in separate files on reels of magnetic tape before 1970. This statement is incorrect. Prior to the introduction of relational databases, which brought about a structured approach to data storage and retrieval, data management relied heavily on manual file systems and specialized storage media like magnetic tapes. Flat files and hierarchical databases dominated the landscape, with each application typically managing its own data files stored on magnetic tape reels or other storage devices.

Conclusion: The correct answer is Option A: True because before the development of relational database management systems in the 1970s, data storage and management were primarily handled through separate files stored on magnetic tape reels or other storage media. This era marked a significant shift with the introduction of relational databases, which revolutionized data management by introducing structured query languages, data independence, and normalized data structures.