Learn in the textbookThe Five Basic Functions of a Computer
DefinitionControl (制御) is the function that takes program instructions out of storage, decodes them, and directs the other units to act.
ExplanationControl is the job of the control unit inside the CPU. The control unit keeps the location in main memory of the next instruction to process (its address) in a storage location called the program counter, and moves that value on to the next instruction each time it fetches one. Repeating fetch, decode and execute in this way moves the program forward step by step.
AnalogyIt is like a conductor who reads the score bar by bar and cues each player to come in, without playing an instrument himself.
Memory hookThe kanji 制 carries the sense of regulating and keeping things in order, a reminder that this function runs the whole show.