Pseudocode Overview
tags: - cocubes - pseudocode
Pseudocode Overview
Pseudocode tests algorithmic logic without forcing one programming language's strict syntax. The question is normally not "Can you memorise C/Java syntax?" It is "Can you execute an algorithm exactly?"
Vocabulary
| Keyword | Meaning |
|---|---|
| READ/Input | take a value |
| DISPLAY/PRINT | output a value |
| SET or = | assign/update a variable |
| SEQUENCE | execute statements in listed order |
| IF/THEN/ELSE | conditional branch |
| FOR | known-count loop |
| WHILE | repeat while condition is true |
| REPEAT-UNTIL | body runs first, then condition is checked |
| CASE | choose among alternatives |
| MOD | remainder |
| DIV | integer quotient |
The only reliable method
Never "read it in your head" for a nontrivial trace. Use [[04_Pseudocode/Dry_Run_Method|the dry-run table]]. A 10-second table prevents most wrong answers.
Main traps
- Updating a variable and then using its new value in the next line.
- Confusing x = x + 1 with a comparison.
- Forgetting that a loop bound can be inclusive or exclusive.
- Forgetting integer division.
- Attaching ELSE to the wrong IF.
- Continuing a recursion past its base case.
- Assuming array indexing when it is explicitly given differently.
Links
- [[04_Pseudocode/Dry_Run_Method|Dry-run method]]
- [[04_Pseudocode/Pseudocode_Patterns|Patterns and traps]]
- [[04_Pseudocode/Pseudocode_Drills|Pseudocode drills]]
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