Abstractions, Algorithm, & Problem Solving Key Terms

Abstraction

The process of reducing complexity by hiding unnecessary implementation details and exposing only what is essential for the user.

Algorithm

A step-by-step set of instructions or processes designed to solve a specific problem.

Function

A combination of variables and operators grouped together to perform a calculation or action.

Heuristic

A practical problem-solving technique or approach that aims to find a workable solution when exact methods are impractical.

Iteration

The repetition of a process or set of instructions in a computer program.

Method

A set of instructions that tells a computer which operations to perform to solve a problem.

NP

A class of computer science problems that have an indeterminate answer, where choosing the best answer requires more information.

Operator

A symbol (such as $+$) or keyword in a programming language that instructs the computer to perform a specific action on data.

P

A class of computer science problems that have a definite, determinate answer.

Procedure

Another term for a method or set of coded instructions.

Solvable Problems

Problems that can be solved using algorithms to yield an exact answer.

Unsolvable Problems

Problems whose solutions are indeterminate and cannot be calculated to an exact answer by a computer.

Variable

A named container made of allowable characters that holds data within a program.