Lecture Notes on Computer Programs and Algorithms

Flashcards about computer programs and algorithms.

Why are computer programs known as software?

To differentiate them from the physical, or hardware, components of a system.

What is the purpose of a software program?

To perform some task.

What is an application program?

Software that is designed to perform a specific task, such as creating text documents.

What is an algorithm?

A set of step-by-step instructions designed to solve a problem.

Why must an algorithm be in a specific order?

The individual instructions of an algorithm have an implied order; we must start with the first instruction and perform them in the order provided.

What is an important property of an algorithm?

Each instruction should be precise

What is a required property of algorithms?

Each instruction should be clear and unambiguous.

To be useful, what must an algorithm produce?

An algorithm must produce at least one output.

How should an algorithm perform?

An algorithm should always work unless the input is invalid