Fundamentals of Algorithms & Computer Problem Solving

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to computer programming and problem-solving techniques.

Computer

An electronic device that operates under the control of instructions stored in its memory, capable of accepting data, processing it, producing results, and storing those results.

Program

A set of instructions that direct the computer to accomplish specific tasks, commonly referred to as software.

Programming Language

A formal language consisting of instructions that can be used to create programs, interpreted or understood by computers.

Programmer

An individual who writes programs to make computers perform tasks.

Program Development Life Cycle (PDLC)

A process that outlines the stages a program goes through, including problem analysis, algorithm design, algorithm implementation, program testing, and maintenance.

Problem Analysis

The first stage of PDLC where the problem is defined, and a clear specification of input and output requirements is established.

Algorithm Design

The phase in PDLC where specifications from problem analysis are translated into a step-by-step sequence of instructions.

Pseudocode

An informal way of programming that uses structured but natural language to describe the logic of the algorithm.

Flowchart

A graphical representation of an algorithm that uses standardized symbols to illustrate the steps needed to accomplish a program's objective.

Algorithm Implementation

The process of translating the designed algorithm into a specific programming language, involving editing, compiling, and debugging.

Program Testing

The stage in PDLC where the completed program is tested to verify it produces the expected output using various testing data.

Program Maintenance

The ongoing process that involves modifying the program code to accommodate new requirements or correct problems.

Input, Process, Output (IPO)

A model used to describe the structure of a program: input refers to data entered into the system, process refers to the operations performed on that data, and output refers to the results produced.

Modular Design

A way of structuring a program that divides it into separate modules or functions, each of which performs a specific task.

Coding

The process of writing code in a programming language to implement the designs from the algorithm design phase.

Debugging

The process of identifying and removing errors in the program code to ensure correct functionality.