ICAS Year 7 Algorithms And Pseudocode

Algorithm

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

Pseudocode

A way of writing algorithms using simple, structured English.

START

The beginning of a pseudocode algorithm.

END

The end of a pseudocode algorithm.

INPUT

Used to get data from the user.

OUTPUT

Used to show data to the user.

SET

Used to assign a value to a variable.

Variable

A name used to store data that can change during the algorithm.

IF…THEN

A decision structure that runs steps only if a condition is true.

ELSE

Used to run different steps if the IF condition is false.

REPEAT…UNTIL

A loop that repeats steps until a condition is true.

WHILE…DO

A loop that repeats while a condition remains true.

Sequence

Steps in order, one after another.

Selection

Choosing between options (like IF…THEN…ELSE).

Iteration

Repeating steps (using loops like WHILE or REPEAT).

Trace table

A table used to track values of variables during each step of the algorithm.

Flowchart

A diagram that shows the steps of an algorithm using shapes and arrows.

Comment

A note in pseudocode to explain what something does (ignored when running).

Bug

A mistake or error in the algorithm.

Debugging

Finding and fixing errors in an algorithm or pseudocode.

Sequence

Instructions run one after another in order.

Selection (Decision)

Choose between options based on a condition (if-then-else).

Iteration (Loop)

Repeat steps until a condition is met (e.g., “repeat 5 times” or “while condition true”).