Writing & Amending Algorithms (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Computer Science)

Exam Tip

Writing algorithms in an exam can be challenging and time consuming. It's important to allocate your time carefully to not spend too little or too long writing an algorithm

You will likely make mistakes and rewrite your algorithm a few times. Use scrap paper or the back of your exam paper if possible to sketch out your ideas before committing to your answer. This will make your answer clearer, neater and easier to read, follow and understand

You may wish to chunk your algorithm into parts initially, for example, “This part will enter the grades”, “this part will calculate the total”, and “This part will allocate grades”. You can then put the whole algorithm together in order later

Make a plan before you start answering the question and writing your algorithm. A plan can be simple but allows you to order your thoughts, for example:

Part 1: Declare and initialise variables

Part 2: Allocate marks for each subject

Part 3: Allocate grades for each student's subject

Part 4: Include a loop

Part 5: Output all necessary data

Pseudocode does not have a syntax, therefore you can write an algorithm in any way which is easily understandable. Caution is advised to stick to IGCSE specification standards to ensure your answer is consistent and easy for examiners to follow

Be sure to use variable names and data provided in the question as given. Failure to do so will lose you marks

Remember to comment on your code. It helps both you and the examiner understand your answer and also awards marks in the mark scheme!