Variable Roles

Variable Roles

1. Fixed Value

   • Any variable that is initialised and left alone for the run time of the program.
   • Might be used to remember the number of elements used in an array.

2. Stepper

   • A variable that counts upwards (in "steps") through a sequence of values.
   • Might be used in iterative loops, for example, to count through and write all elements of an array.

3. Most Recent Holder

   • A variable that holds the last (most recent) in a series of inputs or random values.
   • Might be used to add values input by the user to a final total.

4. Most Wanted Holder

   • A variable that holds the most appropriate value encountered so far.
   • Might be used to store the highest value encountered in a series of user inputs.

5. Gatherer

   • A variable that accumulates or holds all relevant values entered thus far.
   • Might be used to keep a running tally of scores or user inputs.

6. Transformation

   • The opposite of a Fixed Value; this variable is generated through functions of other variables
   • Might be used to store the end result of calculation for a score.

7. Follower

   • A variable that is used to store the previous value of another variable.
   • Might be used to store a user's previous input for validation of current input (eg: password validation)

8. Temporary

   • A variable used to store values for only a short time or for intermediate storage in a procedure.
   • Might be used in a bubble sort to store values to be swapped in an array.