Edexcel compsci topic 1.1

What is decomposition?

Breaking down a complex problem into smaller, manageable parts.

What is abstraction?

Focusing on the important details and ignoring unnecessary ones.

What is algorithmic thinking?

Developing a step-by-step solution to solve a problem.

What are flowcharts used for?

To visually represent the flow of an algorithm.

What are the standard flowchart symbols?

Oval: Start/End | Rectangle: Process | Diamond: Decision | Parallelogram: Input/Output

What is a trace table?

A tool used to track the values of variables step-by-step in an algorithm.

Why are trace tables useful?

They help find logic errors and understand how an algorithm works.

What is a subprogram?

A reusable block of code designed to perform a specific task.

What is the benefit of using subprograms?

Improves code readability, reusability, and makes programs easier to manage.

What is a procedure?

A subprogram that performs a task but does not return a value.

What is a function?

A subprogram that performs a task and returns a value.

What is a parameter?

A variable listed in the subprogram definition.

What is an argument?

The actual value passed to the subprogram when it is called.

What is a local variable?

A variable that is only accessible within the subprogram where it is declared.

What is a global variable?

A variable declared outside subprograms and accessible throughout the program.