Algorithms (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Computer Science)
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- FrontDesigning Algorithms
Define "algorithm"
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Define "algorithm"
An algorithm is a precise set of rules or instructions to solve a specific problem or task.
What are the three main ways to design an algorithm?
The three main ways to design an algorithm are structure diagrams, flowcharts, and pseudocode.
What is a structure diagram?
A structure diagram shows hierarchical top-down design in a visual form, dividing problems into sub-problems.
True or False?
Flowcharts use shapes to represent different functions in an algorithm.
True.
Flowcharts use shapes to represent different functions to describe an algorithm.
What does pseudocode use to describe an algorithm?
Pseudocode uses short English words/statements to describe an algorithm.
Define "flowchart"
A flowchart is a visual tool that uses shapes to represent different functions to describe an algorithm.
What do lines represent in a flowchart?
In a flowchart, lines represent the flow of control.
True or False?
Pseudocode is less structured than writing sentences in English.
False.
Pseudocode is more structured than writing sentences in English but is very flexible.
What is the function of this shape in a flowchart?
Inputs and outputs.
What is the function of this shape in a flowchart?
Sub-process.
What are three ways algorithms can be written?
Algorithms can be written using flowcharts, pseudocode, or high-level programming language code such as Python.
True or False?
A well-designed algorithm should be interpretable by a new user who can explain what it does.
True.
A well-designed algorithm should be interpretable by a new user who can explain what it does.
What is the purpose of an algorithm?
The purpose of an algorithm is to solve a problem.
Define "pseudocode"
Pseudocode is a method of writing algorithms using short English words/statements that is more structured than plain English but less formal than actual programming code.
What are three ways to understand a complex algorithm?
Three ways to understand a complex algorithm are: look for comments in the code, consider the context of where the algorithm is being used, and test the algorithm with different inputs.
What does the term "initialisation" mean in the context of algorithms?
Initialisation refers to setting initial values for variables at the beginning of an algorithm.
True or False?
The purpose of an algorithm should always be explicitly stated at the beginning.
False.
The purpose of an algorithm should become clear by following its instructions, even if not explicitly stated.
What is the function of an array in an algorithm?
An array in an algorithm is used to store multiple values under a single variable name, typically accessed by an index.
What does the term "REPEAT...UNTIL" represent in pseudocode?
In pseudocode, "REPEAT...UNTIL" represents a loop that continues to execute until a specified condition is met.
What is the purpose of the "IF...THEN...ELSE" structure in algorithms?
The "IF...THEN...ELSE" structure in algorithms is used for decision-making, allowing different actions to be taken based on whether a condition is true or false.