Programming is a logical process. In order to create a program, you must first determine the problem to be solved. Many programmers use pseudocode as a first step to creating their program. Pseudocode allows the programmer to describe the problem logically without having the actual code (in the complex programming language) in the document. Something as simple as clapping your hands can be explained logically using pseudocode, as in the example below.
Problem: A response is required at the conclusion of a spectacular concert performance.
Steps
Decide to clap
Extend both right and left arms forward away from the body
Open hands
Rotate hands so that right hand and left hand palms are facing each other
Move right hand toward left hand until palms are touching
Move right hand away from left hand 12 inches
Repeat steps 5 and 6 20 times.
Drop hands to sides of body
End clap
Based on this example, you can see that something as simple as clapping has many steps.
Activity Instructions
For this assignment, create pseudocode for the process of getting out of a chair and shaking hands with someone. As you are creating the steps, practice them or play them out in your head to be sure that you dont miss anything.
Flowcharting provides a graphical representation of what a program must do. There are standard flowchart objects to represent processes, decisions, etc. and putting your pseudocode into a flowchart will help you identify coding issues.
Activity Instructions
Now that you have created pseudocode to help you create a program, lets create a flowchart to assist with the program. Using the steps below and proper flowchart objects, create a flowchart for the process of clapping your hands.
Steps
Decide to clap
Extend both right and left arms forward away from the body
Open hands
Rotate hands so that right hand and left hand palms are facing each other
Move right hand toward left hand until palms are touching
Move right hand away from left hand 12 inches
Repeat steps 5 and 6 20 times.
Drop hands to sides of body
End clap