Computer Programming Basics: Languages, Life Cycle, and Flowchart Symbols

Computer programs

Set of instructions that are fed into the computer to perform specific tasks.

Good Qualities Of A Programmer

Logical, patience, communication, ethical, teamwork.

Machine language

The 'NATIVE TONGUE' of the computer, made up of a series of binary patterns.

Assembly language

Slightly more advanced than machine language, uses MNEMONICS to make programming easier.

High level languages

Allows programmers to use instructions that more closely resemble the English language.

MNEMONICS

Memory aids, alphabetic abbreviations for instructions.

Compiler

Used to translate the entire source code before executing.

Interpreter

Translates source code programs one line at a time.

The Programming Life Cycles

Includes Problems Definition, Problem Analysis, Algorithm Development, Coding & Documentation, Testing & Debugging, Maintenance.

Problem Definition

Understanding the problem statement, requirements, and expected output.

Problem Analysis

Determining requirements such as variables and functions to solve the problem.

Algorithm Development

Developing a step-by-step procedure to solve the problem.

Coding and Documentation

Using a programming language to write or implement actual programming instructions.

Testing and Debugging

Checking if the code solves the problem for various input data values.

Maintenance

Enhancements and problem resolution during program usage.

Algorithm

A step-by-step solving procedure for a problem in a finite number of steps.

Criteria of a Good Algorithm

Includes Input, Output, Definiteness, Finiteness, Effectiveness.

Flowchart Symbols

Symbols used to represent different elements in a flowchart.

Oblong

Start points, end points and potential outcomes in a flowchart.

Line

A connector that shows the relationship between the representative shapes.

Parallelogram

Represents data that is available for input or output.

Rectangle

Represents a process, action, or function in flowcharting.

Diamond

Used for true or false, yes or no questions in flowcharts.

Hexagon

Depicts a step that involves preparation in a flowchart.

Connector symbol

A connector to separate elements across one page.

Off page connector

Connects separate elements across multiple pages.

Documents symbol

Represents the input or output of a document.

} symbol

Used for explanation or comment purposes only.