An Introduction to Problem Solving

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture notes on problem solving and algorithm design.

Problem

The difference between the current level of performance and an attainable goal; the gap you want to close through improvement.

Problem Statement

A precise description of what the problem is, written to guide solution (example: Accept two numbers; compute and display their sum).

Problem Definition

The step of looking carefully to identify exactly what the problem is and writing it down.

Problem Analysis

The step that breaks a complex problem into smaller, manageable components; considered the most important step.

Inputs

The data to be used or required by the problem or algorithm.

Processing

The operations or computations performed on inputs to produce outputs.

Outputs

The results produced by the algorithm or program.

Storage

Values to be stored or remembered during processing.

IPO Chart

A chart that lists Input, Processing, and Output to analyze a problem; example uses A, B and sum.

Input

The data supplied to the algorithm (e.g., A and B).

Processing (Step)

The operations performed on inputs (e.g., sum a + b).

Output (Step)

The result produced (e.g., sum).

Propose and Evaluate Possible Solutions

The step of examining all possible solutions and selecting the best one given constraints like time and resources.

Algorithm

A finite number of accurate, unambiguous steps that solve a problem.

Narrative Algorithm

An algorithm described in everyday language; each instruction is written in plain words.

Flowchart

A diagram that uses standard symbols to represent the steps, flow, and data in an algorithm.

Terminator

The flowchart symbol that marks the start or end of the process.

Process (Flowchart)

The flowchart symbol representing a processing step.

Input/Output

The flowchart symbol representing input or output operations.

Decision (Flowchart)

The flowchart symbol used to choose between two options (yes or no).

Flow Control

The flow of data and execution shown in a flowchart.

Connector

The flowchart symbol used to connect parts of a flowchart that can't fit on one page.

Pseudocode

A representation of an algorithm using words and symbols that resemble programming language instructions.

Assignment

An operation in an algorithm where a value is placed into a variable.

Decision (Processing Step)

A branching operation in algorithms that chooses between alternatives.

Iteration (Loop)

A repeating construct in algorithms that loops a set of steps.

Arrays

A data structure used to store multiple values in one variable.

Good Algorithm

An algorithm with finite steps, is precise and unambiguous, has flow control, terminates, and yields output.

Trace Table

A table used to test an algorithm by calculating and recording variable values step-by-step to locate logical errors.

Test and Debug the Program

The process of running tests to find and fix errors in the code.

Implement the Algorithm

Writing the actual program code based on the algorithm.

Test and Validate the Algorithm

Checking that the algorithm works correctly under expected conditions.

Document and Maintain the Program

Keeping records and ensuring the program remains functional and up-to-date.