🧭 Topic: Problem Solving
Quick Overview
This foundational topic introduces the core skill of programming: problem-solving. It’s not about writing code immediately, but about learning how to think logically and systematically. We will explore how to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable steps using a structured approach. By the end of this lecture, students will understand the principles of algorithmic thinking and be able to plan solutions using tools like flowcharts and pseudocode before writing a single line of code.
📌 Covered in This Topic
- The Art of Problem Solving: An introduction to planning, creativity, innovation, and clearly defining the cause, goal, and potential solutions to a problem.
- Stages of Algorithmic Thinking: A 7-step logical process for solving problems:
1. Define the Problem
2. Analyze and Understand
3. Identify Potential Solutions
4. Evaluate and Choose a Solution
5. Plan Actions
6. Implement the Code
7. Review the Results
- What is an Algorithm? Defining an algorithm as a step-by-step procedure or a recipe for solving a problem.
- Introduction to Flowcharts: Learning to visualize the flow of a solution using standard symbols to represent actions, decisions, and data flow.
- Introduction to Pseudocode: Understanding how to write a plain-language, structured description of an algorithm’s steps before translating it into a programming language.
- Choosing the Best Algorithm: An introduction to the criteria for evaluating different solutions, focusing on time and space efficiency, reliability, and simplicity.
📑 Slides & Materials
🛠️ Workshop & Assignments
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Tip
If something doesn’t make sense — don’t stay stuck alone. Ask the TA to clarify it right away. Often, a quick question can save you a lot of time and frustration. Remember: if you’re confused, chances are others are too.