Computer Science Key terms

Algorithm

A set of steps, done in order, to complete a task.

Sequence

Instruction are set in order to ensure a logical output or prevent the program from crashing.

Decomposition

Breaking down a bigger problem into smaller steps (or problems)

Abstraction

Removing unnecessary information from a problem.

Algorithmic thinking

Thinking in a way that breaks the problem down into steps (smaller parts) and then solving them individually.

Selection

Decision in the algorithms- where code branches.

Iteration

A coding structure that repeats a block of code for a certain amount of time.

Count Controlled Iteration (definite)

A block of code that is repeated a definite amount of time.

Condition Controlled Iteration (indefinite)

A block of code that is repeated whilst a condition is met.

Variable Assignment

Storing a value as a memory location.

Data Validation

Making sure that the input date keeps to the set rules. This is important to make robust code.