cs chapter 1

unambiguous

This means the instructions cannot be misunderstood. All instructions given to a computer must be unambiguous or it won’t know what to do

Sequence

an ordered set of instructions

algorithm

a precise method for solving a problem that is unambiguous, consistent, and a sequence of steps that always provides an outcome

high level programming language

a programming language that is similar to natural human language

Written description

simplest way of expressing an algorithm through common language

flowchart

shows an algorithm as a diagram. Each step is represented by a symbol, symbols are connected by arrows showing the order in which the steps are completed

pseudocode

a structured, code-like language that can be used to describe an algorithm. It allows the developer to focus on the logic and efficiency of the algorithm rather than programming rules

developer

person who’s job it is to create new software

logic

the principles and reasoning underlying the constructs and elements to be applied in solving problems

Variable

A container used to store data. The data stored in a variable is the value, values in a variable are not fixed as the same variable can store different values in the course of a program and each time a program is run.

Identifier

A unique name given to a variable or a constant - using descriptive names makes code easier to use

arithmetic operator

operator that performs a calculation on 2 numbers (+, -, *, /, DIV //, MOD%, ^)

Constant

a container that holds a value that always stays the same