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Computer Science Notes-Computational Thinking & Introduction To Algorithms

Computational thinking involves breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts through techniques like decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic design. Algorithms are step-by-step instructions to solve problems or perform tasks, and they underlie modern technology. Developing algorithms requires understanding the problem, planning the logic, translating the plan into pseudo-code, refining and optimizing the pseudo-code, implementing the code, and testing it through iterative refinement. Computational thinking and algorithms are essential to problem-solving across many fields.

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Haram Tanveer
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484 views3 pages

Computer Science Notes-Computational Thinking & Introduction To Algorithms

Computational thinking involves breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts through techniques like decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic design. Algorithms are step-by-step instructions to solve problems or perform tasks, and they underlie modern technology. Developing algorithms requires understanding the problem, planning the logic, translating the plan into pseudo-code, refining and optimizing the pseudo-code, implementing the code, and testing it through iterative refinement. Computational thinking and algorithms are essential to problem-solving across many fields.

Uploaded by

Haram Tanveer
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Computational Thinking and Introduction

to Algorithms

Introduction: Computational thinking is a fundamental problem-solving approach that encompasses

a set of skills and concepts used to formulate and solve complex problems in a systematic and

efficient manner. It underlies the development of algorithms, which are step-by-step instructions for

solving problems or performing tasks. Algorithms play a pivotal role in computer science and

various fields that rely on automation and data processing.

I. Computational Thinking

1. Definition and Core Concepts:

● Computational thinking involves breaking down problems into smaller, manageable parts
and solving them logically.
● Key concepts: decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic design.

2. Decomposition:

● Breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable sub-problems.


● Enables focused problem-solving and collaboration.

3. Pattern Recognition:

● Identifying commonalities among different problems or data sets.


● Helps in creating generalizable solutions.

4. Abstraction:

● Simplifying complex reality by focusing on relevant details.


● Essential for constructing models and designing algorithms.

5. Algorithmic Design:
● Process of formulating a step-by-step plan to solve a problem.
● Combines decomposition, pattern recognition, and abstraction.

II. Introduction to Algorithms

1. What are Algorithms?

● Algorithms are well-defined, finite sequences of instructions to perform specific tasks.


● They drive modern technology and are used in everyday applications.

2. Characteristics of Algorithms:

● Clear and unambiguous: Each step has a precise meaning.


● Input: Accepts inputs to produce desired outputs.
● Finiteness: Must terminate after a finite number of steps.
● Effectiveness: Every step must be feasible and understandable.

3. Algorithm Analysis:

● Evaluating algorithms based on efficiency and performance.


● Metrics: time complexity (runtime), space complexity (memory usage).

4. Importance of Efficient Algorithms:

● Faster algorithms lead to quicker task completion.


● Reduced resource consumption enhances user experience.

III. Developing Algorithms Using Pseudo and Programming Languages

1. Pseudo-Code:

● High-level, human-readable representation of an algorithm.


● Independent of specific programming languages.
● Focuses on logic and structure.

2. Algorithm Development:

● Understand the problem, identify inputs/outputs, and plan the logic.


● Translate the plan into pseudo-code.
● Refine and optimize the pseudo-code.
3. Programming Languages and Algorithms:

● Pseudo-code needs to be translated into a programming language for implementation.


● Choice of programming language depends on factors like efficiency, simplicity, and
compatibility.

4. Implementation and Testing:

● Write code based on the refined pseudo-code.


● Test the algorithm with various inputs to ensure correctness and efficiency.

5. Iterative Refinement:

● Continuously optimize the algorithm's code for better performance.


● Consider edge cases and real-world scenarios.

Conclusion:

Computational thinking provides a structured approach to problem-solving, while algorithms serve

as the practical realization of this process. The use of pseudo and programming languages enables

the development of efficient algorithms, contributing to advancements in technology and problem-

solving across various domains. Mastering computational thinking and algorithms is essential for

anyone in the field of computer science and beyond.

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