WED CompSci 2/25

Exam Overview

• The exam is scheduled for tomorrow during the lab session.

• Duration: Two hours to complete the exam.

• Format: It will be a paper-based exam, similar to in-class assignments, utilizing Scantron for multiple-choice questions.

• It will include short answer questions in a separate packet.

Exam Content

• Topics Covered: Everything learned so far except linked lists.

Key Topics To Study:

1. Enumerated Types

• Ability to write an enumerated type.

• Understand the following methods:

  • values(): retrieves all iterator values.

  • equals(): checks for object equality.

  • toString(): returns string representation.

  • ordinal(): retrieves position of the enum constant.

2. Arrays

• Proficiency in manipulating arrays, especially:

  • Two-dimensional arrays.

  • Jagged arrays.

• Ability to trace methods and write small methods, similar to in-class assignments and maze game methods.

3. Big O Notation

• Understand the formula to estimate run time based on input size.

  • Formula: $\frac{f(size2)}{f(size1)} \times answer1$

  • Ability to estimate time complexities based on given values:

  • Example Calculation:

    • Suppose $size1 = 100$ and $answer1 = 250$ with $size2 = 1000$.

    • For $O(n)$ complexity, the calculation becomes:
      $\frac{1000}{100} \times 250 = 2500$

• Know how to analyze method complexity based on loops and iterations.

• Understand common complexities (e.g., linear, quadratic, cubic).

4. Exceptions

• Familiarity with try-catch blocks and their structures.

  • Distinction between checked and unchecked exceptions:

  • Checked: Must be handled or declared to be thrown.

  • Unchecked: Generally runtime exceptions, can be handled but not required.

• Review the inheritance tree of exceptions to determine their types.

5. Object Class

• Understand the significance of the Object class as the superclass of all classes.

• Familiarity with inherited methods, specifically:

  • clone() method, its implications regarding shallow vs deep clones.

• Recognition of quality reference equality vs content equality.

6. Data Structures (Array Bags)

• Knowledge of underlying designs for IntArrayBag and DoubleArraySeq.

• Ability to interpret internal structures and behaviors after calls to methods like add or remove:

  • Understand what the underlying array looks like after certain operations.

7. Inheritance

• Comprehension of superclass, subclass relationships.

• Ability to interpret UML diagrams representing class relationships.

• Knowledge of how casting operates within inheritance.

  • Widening and Narrowing:

  • Widening: Assigning a subclass object to a superclass (e.g., Teacher to Person).

  • Narrowing: Assigning a superclass object to a subclass (with potential casting).

Exam Preparation Tips

• Review previously graded homework and quizzes.

• Focus on homework questions similar to expected exam questions.

• Utilize the study materials and the dedicated exam section on the As You Learn platform.

• Cheat Sheet Allowed: One 8.5 x 11-inch paper, front and back, allowed for the exam. Material may include formulas, notes on exception types, and any relevant code snippets.

Additional Points

• No GUI content will be tested; focus on foundational programming concepts.

• Final preparations should include clarifying any remaining doubts with the instructor.

• Engaging resources include class slides and practical assignments to consolidate learning.

• Be familiar with handling exceptions and the use of instance checking within the context of casting objects.

• Review all relevant class structures and inheritance thoroughly for a firm examination readiness.