Programming Handout: Pseudocode, IO, and Variables (Vocabulary Flashcards)

These vocabulary flashcards cover key terms from the notes on algorithms, pseudocode, IO statements, variables, memory, identifiers, constants, and assignment concepts.

Algorithm

A finite sequence of instructions that, when followed, solves a given problem.

Pseudocode

An imitation computer program using mathematical notation and English-like statements to describe the logic; uses BEGIN and END to mark the start and end.

Flowchart

A graphical diagram representing the sequence of steps in a process.

Output Statement

A command to display information to the user; common keywords include PRINT, OUTPUT, DISPLAY, or WRITE (PRINT is used in these notes). The printed text is placed in quotation marks.

Input Statement

A command to read data from outside the program into a variable; common keywords include READ and INPUT (READ is used in these notes).

BEGIN

A keyword used to indicate the start of the pseudocode process.

END

A keyword used to indicate the end of the pseudocode process.

PRINT

An output statement that displays text or results; text to be printed is placed in quotation marks.

READ

An input statement that reads data from outside the computer into a variable.

Variable

A named memory location whose value can change during program execution.

Memory

The storage area where variables occupy space; depicted as boxes that hold data.

Identifier

The name given by the programmer to a data item; can be a variable or a constant.

Constant

A data value that does not change during program execution.

Lvalue

The left-hand side of an assignment; the storage location where the value is stored.

Rvalue

The right-hand side of an assignment; the value or expression to be stored in the Lvalue.

Assignment Statement

An operation that stores the Rvalue into the Lvalue; uses an assignment operator (in notes shown as an arrow). For example, assigning a computed value to a variable.

Literal

A fixed value written directly in the program, e.g., the text inside quotation marks.

Prompt

A print statement used to ask the user for input (e.g., printing a message before READ).

IPO Table

A planning tool showing Input, Process, and Output for a task (what data is read, what is processed, and what is produced as output).