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CSEC IT Programming Study Notes

The document provides an overview of programming concepts, including definitions of programming, programming languages, and essential programming terms. It covers control structures, pseudocode, flowcharts, input/output operations, operators, arrays, debugging, and best practices for writing code. The notes emphasize the importance of algorithms, data types, and structured programming for effective coding.

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12 views3 pages

CSEC IT Programming Study Notes

The document provides an overview of programming concepts, including definitions of programming, programming languages, and essential programming terms. It covers control structures, pseudocode, flowcharts, input/output operations, operators, arrays, debugging, and best practices for writing code. The notes emphasize the importance of algorithms, data types, and structured programming for effective coding.

Uploaded by

paulcassie613
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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CSEC Information Technology:

Programming Study Notes


1. What is Programming?
Programming is the process of writing instructions (code) for a computer to perform tasks.
Programs are written in programming languages like Python, Java, and Pascal.

2. Programming Languages
- **Low-level languages**: Machine language, Assembly.
- **High-level languages**: Closer to human language; easier to read and write (e.g., Pascal,
Python, C).

Examples:
- Pascal: Often used in CSEC exams.
- Python: Widely used in modern applications.

3. Programming Terms
- **Algorithm**: A step-by-step plan to solve a problem.
- **Variable**: A named space in memory to store a value.
- **Constant**: A value that doesn’t change.
- **Data Types**: Integer, Real, Char, String, Boolean.

4. Control Structures
- **Sequence**: Instructions run one after the other.
- **Selection**: If…Then…Else statements used for decision-making.
- **Iteration**: Loops (For, While, Repeat…Until). Used for repeating tasks.

Example in Pascal:
```
If age > 18 Then
WriteLn('Adult')
Else
WriteLn('Minor');
```
5. Pseudocode and Flowcharts
- **Pseudocode**: Structured English to describe algorithms.
- **Flowcharts**: Diagrams that show the flow of an algorithm using shapes.
- Oval: Start/End
- Parallelogram: Input/Output
- Rectangle: Process
- Diamond: Decision

6. Basic Input/Output
Input allows users to enter data; Output displays results.

Pascal example:
```
Var name: String;
Begin
Write('Enter your name: ');
ReadLn(name);
WriteLn('Hello ', name);
End.
```

7. Arithmetic and Relational Operators


- **Arithmetic**: +, -, *, /, MOD, DIV
- **Relational**: =, <>, <, >, <=, >=

Used in conditions and calculations.

8. Arrays and Strings


- **Array**: A collection of elements of the same type.
- Example: `scores: array[1..5] of integer;`
- **String operations**: Length, Concatenation, Substring.

9. Debugging and Testing


- **Syntax errors**: Mistakes in code (e.g., missing semicolon).
- **Logic errors**: Code runs but produces incorrect results.
- **Testing**: Verifying that the program works as expected.
10. Writing Good Code
- Use comments to explain sections.
- Use meaningful variable names.
- Follow consistent indentation and formatting.

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