Algorithms, Flowcharts, and Pseudocode
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Algorithms, Flowcharts, and Pseudocode
- Most programmer’s first instinct is just to start coding. Is this a good idea? If you agree, then provide a rationale to support it. Also, provide an example of a software engineering model the supports this concept. If you do not agree, then provide an example of why this is a bad idea and identify a software engineering model that supports your decision.
The first instinct of programmers is just to start coding, which is a bad idea as much as the quality and best coding practices are concerned. It is good practice to think and do comprehensive research before starting to code (CrashCourse, 2020). Moreover, it is a good practice to plan all feature before starting to code as this will offer you a step by step approach of completing the task; this is commonly called the Waterfall approach, which is a linear system plan with various different steps to be accomplished one by one.
- In this module, you have looked at Algorithms, Flowcharts, and Pseudocode. Are all three necessary to be a good coder? Do research to find some real-world data about how they are used. Describe what you found. If the data you found does not support the use of all three, describe, which would you consider important?
To be a good coder, it is essential that one makes use of algorithms, flowcharts, and pseudocode. The three helps in simplifying coding and make complex problems manageable. The algorithm offers a step-by-step process of analysis, whereas flowcharts help in explaining programming steps graphically (“Cambridge GCSE Computing Online, “2020). Moreover, pseudocode helps in specifying the steps needed to accomplish a given task. Algorithm, flowcharts and pseudocode help in clarification of various steps needed to solve problems as well as prevention of error in code and are, therefore, necessary for one to be a good coder. In real life, algorithms are used in video players, mp3, and in making dictionaries (CrashCourse, 2020). Furthermore, scheduling of tasks in an operating system is done via algorithm such as first in first out (FIFO) and Round robin. Of all the three, I deem algorithm is the most important as it is commonly involved in solving very complex problems.
References
Cambridge GCSE Computing Online. (2020). Algorithms in pseudocode and flow diagrams [Video]. Retrieved 8 August 2020, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDWw4Ltfy5w&feature=youtu.be.
CrashCourse. (2020). Intro to Algorithms: Crash Course Computer Science #13 [Image]. Retrieved 8 August 2020, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rL8X2mlNHPM&feature=youtu.be.