N5 Computing

N5 Computing

1. Data Types and Structures

   • Variables
     • Have to have a name and a type
       • Dim myAge as String
     • Real numbers use more storage than integer numbers.
     • Boolean can be stored using 1 bit.
   • Arrays
     • Allow you to easily store a list of values.
       • Have to have a name, size and type.
         • Dim myAge(10) as Integer
   • Testing
     • Step 1. Choose a range of data.
       • Normal, extreme or exceptional.
         • Step 2. Work out expected results.
           • Step 3. Make sure program agrees.
     • Error Types
       • Syntax Error - Error in language eg. misspelling
         • Execution Error - Error whilst program is running eg. division by 0.
           • Logic Error - This error type will give wrong results eg. using And instead of Or
   • Code Readability
     • Good Variable names
     • Internal Commentary
     • Indenting Correctly
     • White Space

2. Design Notation

   • Used to help you describe the solution before you start coding.
   • Graphical
     • Structured Chart
       • Allows you to show the flow of data (inputs and outputs).
       • Not a lot of detail.
   • Text
     • Pseudocode
       • Allows a fair amount of detail in design.
       • Code and Pseudocode are almost similar in text so its easily translated.