Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming (OCR)

Complex Problem

A complex problem is one that, at first glance, does not have an obvious, immediate solution.

Decomposition

Decomposition involves breaking down a complex problem or system into smaller parts that are more manageable and easier to understand.

Abstraction

Abstraction is the process of filtering out - essentially ignoring - the characteristics of problems that are not needed in order to concentrate on those that are needed.

Algorithm

An algorithm is a logical, step-by-step process for solving a problem.

Pseudocode

Pseudocode is not an actual programming language. Instead, it is a simple way of describing a set of instructions in a manner that resembles a programming language.

Flow Diagram

A flow diagram is a diagram that shows an overview of a program.

When developing programs what are the two types of errors (bugs) that often occur

Syntax errors and logic errors

Syntax errors

A syntax error occurs when code written does not follow the rules of the programming language

Logic errors

A logic error is an error in the way a program works. The program simply does not do what it is expected to do.

Dry Run

A dry run involves creating what is called a trace table, containing all the variables a program contains.

Why are trace tables useful?

Trace tables are extremely useful because they enable a programmer to compare what the value of each variable should be against what a program actually produces. Where the two differ is the point in the program where a logic error has occurred.

What are the three important elements of computational thinking?

Decomposition, Abstraction, Algorithmic thinking

A decomposed problem should consider…

• What are the inputs into the problem?

• What will be the outputs of the problem?

• In what order do instructions need to be carried out?

• What decisions need to be made in the problem?

• Are any areas of the problem repeated?

Computational thinking

Computational thinking enables you to work out exactly what to tell the computer to do.

Algorithms are usually written as…

pseudocode or a flow diagram