AP Comp Sci Principles Key Terms

Abstraction

The process of reducing complexity by hiding details and showing only essential features, often using functions.

Algorithm

A precise sequence of instructions for solving a problem or performing a task.

Function (Procedure)

A named block of code designed to perform a specific task; it can be reused throughout a program.

Parameter

A variable used in a function to accept input values when the function is called.

Return Value

The output that a function sends back to the part of the program that called it.

Call (Function Call)

An instruction in a program that executes a function.

Sequence

The specific order in which program instructions are executed.

Selection

The use of conditional statements (like if or if/else) to control which code runs based on certain conditions.

Iteration

The repetition of a section of code using loops (for, while, etc.).

Loop

A control structure that repeats code while a condition is true or for a set number of times.

Boolean Expression

An expression that evaluates to true or false, used in conditions.

Variable

A named storage location that holds a value which can be changed during program execution.

List (Array)

An ordered collection of elements stored under one variable name.

Index

The position of an item in a list, usually starting from 0.

Input

Data received by a program, often from the user or another system.

Output

Data sent out by a program, such as printed text, visual display, or returned results.

Event

An action that triggers code to run, such as a mouse click or key press.

Event Handler

A block of code that responds to an event when it occurs.

Debugging

The process of finding and fixing errors in a program.

Syntax Error

A mistake in the code that breaks the rules of the programming language.

Logic Error

An error where the program runs but gives the wrong output due to incorrect reasoning in the code.

Development Process

The steps taken to design, code, test, and improve a program.

Testing

Running a program to check if it behaves as expected.

Comment

Text in code meant for human readers to explain what the code does; ignored by the computer.

Condition

An expression used to make decisions in code, usually involving comparison operators like ==, >, or <.