[go: up one dir, main page]
Scribd
Upload
4 views7 pages

Chapter 4 Problem Solving

Chapter 4 discusses the problem-solving process in computing, emphasizing the importance of algorithms and coding. It outlines the steps for problem-solving, including analyzing the problem, developing algorithms, coding, and testing. The chapter also covers flow control, algorithm verification, and the decomposition of complex problems into manageable sub-problems.

Uploaded by

anju.k10301
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
4 views7 pages

Chapter 4 Problem Solving

Chapter 4 discusses the problem-solving process in computing, emphasizing the importance of algorithms and coding. It outlines the steps for problem-solving, including analyzing the problem, developing algorithms, coding, and testing. The chapter also covers flow control, algorithm verification, and the decomposition of complex problems into manageable sub-problems.

Uploaded by

anju.k10301
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 7

Chapter 4: Problem Solving

Introduction
Computerisation and Problem Solving: - Emphasizes the role of computers
in automating complex tasks. - Example: Online train ticket booking.
Problem Solving: - Process of identifying a problem, developing an algorithm,
and implementing it to create a computer program.
Role of Computers: - Require precise step-by-step instructions (algorithms)
from humans to solve problems effectively.

Steps for Problem Solving

1. Analyzing the Problem:


• Clearly understanding the problem before attempting to solve it.
2. Developing an Algorithm:
• An algorithm is a step-by-step solution to the problem, similar to a
recipe.

1
• Multiple algorithms may exist for a problem; the most suitable one
must be selected.
3. Coding:
• Converting the algorithm into a format understandable by the com-
puter using a programming language.
4. Testing and Debugging:
• Ensuring the program works correctly through various testing methods
and fixing any errors found.

Algorithm
Definition: - A finite sequence of steps to solve a problem or perform a task.
Importance: - Acts as a roadmap for writing programs, increasing reliability,
accuracy, and efficiency.

Characteristics of a Good Algorithm


• Precision: Steps are precisely stated or defined.
• Uniqueness: Results of each step are uniquely defined and depend only
on the input and the preceding steps.
• Finiteness: The algorithm always stops after a finite number of steps.
• Input: The algorithm receives some input.
• Output: The algorithm produces some output.

Representation of Algorithms
• Flowchart: Visual representation using standardized symbols.

• Symbols: Start/end, processes, decisions, input/output, arrows.

Example Algorithm Algorithm to find the square of a number: 1. Input a


number and store it in num. 2. Compute num * num and store it in square. 3.
Print square.

2
Pseudocode
Pseudocode: - Human-readable description of algorithm steps.
Keywords: - INPUT, COMPUTE, PRINT, INCREMENT, DECREMENT, IF/ELSE, WHILE,
TRUE/FALSE.

Example Pseudocode Pseudocode for the sum of two numbers: 1. INPUT


num1 2. INPUT num2 3. COMPUTE Result = num1 + num2 4. PRINT Result

3
Benefits of Pseudocode
• Represents the basic functionality of the intended program in human-
readable language.
• Safeguards against omitting any important steps.
• Non-programmers can easily review to ensure the proposed implementation
achieves the desired result.

Flow of Control
Sequence: - Steps are executed one after another in a linear fashion.
Selection: - Decision-making processes where different paths are taken based
on certain conditions.
Iteration: - Repeating certain steps a specified number of times or until a
condition is met.

Flow of Control: SELECTION


Example:
PRINT "Enter the Number"
INPUT num1
IF num1 MOD 2 == 0 THEN
PRINT "Number is Even"
ELSE

4
PRINT "Number is Odd"

Flow of Control: Selection

Example:
INPUT Age
IF Age < 13 THEN
PRINT "Child"
ELSE IF Age < 20 THEN
PRINT "Teenager"
ELSE
PRINT "Adult"

5
Flow of Control: Repetition

Example:
Step 1: SET count = 0, sum = 0
Step 2: WHILE count < 5 REPEAT steps 3 to 5
Step 3: INPUT a number to num
Step 4: sum = sum + num
Step 5: count = count + 1
Step 6: COMPUTE average = sum / 5
Step 7: PRINT average

Verifying Algorithms
• Correctness: Ensuring the correct solution for all input values.
• Testing: Running the algorithm with various inputs.

Comparing Algorithms
Efficiency: - Comparing algorithms based on their efficiency, including time
complexity (how fast an algorithm runs) and space complexity (how much
memory an algorithm uses).
Choosing the Best Algorithm: - Selecting the most suitable algorithm based
on the specific requirements and constraints of the problem.

6
Decomposition
Breaking Down Problems: - Dividing a complex problem into smaller, more
manageable sub-problems.
Solving Sub-problems: - Developing algorithms for each sub-problem and
then combining them to solve the overall problem.

Key Examples and Activities


• Finding GCD: Algorithm steps for the Greatest Common Divisor.
• Square of a Number: Algorithm and flowchart.
• Non-Functioning Light Bulb: Troubleshooting flowchart.
• LCM Calculation: Steps for Least Common Multiple.
• Career Goal Flowchart: Visual representation of career steps.
• Pseudocode for Hockey Match Scoreboard: Steps to create a score-
board.

You might also like