We give several algorithms for finitely generated subgroups of the modular group PSL2(ℤ) given by sets of generators. First, we present an algorithm to check whether a finitely generated subgroup H has finite index in the full modular group. Then we discuss how to parametrise the right cosets of H in PSL2(ℤ), whether the index is finite or not. Further, we explain how an element in H can be written as a word in a given set of generators of H.

We describe an algorithm for computing successive quotients of the Schur multiplier M(G) of a group G given by an invariant finite L-presentation. As applications, we investigate the Schur multipliers of various self-similar groups, including the Grigorchuk super-group, the generalized Fabrykowski–Gupta groups, the Basilica group and the Brunner–Sidki–Vieira group.

In 2006 we completed the proof of a five-part conjecture that was made in 1977 about a family of groups related to trivalent graphs. This family covers all 2-generator, 2-relator groups where one relator specifies that a generator is an involution and the other relator has three syllables. Our proof relies upon detailed but general computations in the groups under question. The proof is theoretical, but based upon explicit proofs produced by machine for individual cases. Here we explain how we derived the general proofs from specific cases. The conjecture essentially addressed only the finite groups in the family. Here we extend the results to infinite groups, effectively determining when members of this family of finitely presented groups are simply isomorphic to a specific quotient.

The uniserial $p$-adic space groups of coclass $r$ play a central role in the classification of the finite $p$-groups of coclass $r$. A practical algorithm to determine up to isomorphism the uniserial $p$-adic space groups of coclass $r$, where $p$ is an odd prime, is described. As an application, these groups are constructed or counted for some values on $p$ and $r$. For example, it is observed that there are 137 299 953 383 uniserial 3-adic space groups of coclass 4.

A practical method is described for deciding whether or not a finite-dimensional module for a group over a finite field is reducible or not. In the reducible case, an explicit submodule is found. The method is a generalistaion of the Parker-Norton ‘Meataxe’ algorithm, but it does not depend for its efficiency on the field being small. The principal tools involved are the calculation of the nullspace and the characteristic polynomial of a matrix over a finite field, and the factorisation of the latter. Related algorithms to determine absolute irreducibility and module isomorphism for irreducibles are also described. Details of an implementation in the GAP system, together with some performance analyses are included.

We answer some questions which arise from a recent paper of Campbell, Heggie, Robertson and Thomas on one-relator free products of two cyclic groups. In the process we show how publicly accessible computer programs can be used to help answer questions about finite group presentations.