tailieunhanh - Unit_8: Steps in problems solving

Can a computer solve problems? Definitely not. It is a machine that carries out the procedures which the programmer gives it. It is the programmer then who solves the problems. There are a few steps that one has to follow in problems solving | Unit 8 Steps in problems solving Can a computer solve problems Definitely not. It is a machine that carries out the procedures which the programmer gives it. It is the programmer then who solves the problems. There are a few steps that one has to follow in problems solving. Step 1. The programmer must define the problem clearly. This means that she or he has to determine in a general way how to solve the problem. Some problems are easy while others take months of study. The programmer should always start by asking Do I understand the problem Step 2. The programmer must formulate an algorithm which is a straightforward sequence of steps of instructions used to solve the problem. Constructing an algorithm is the most important part of problem solving and is usually time-consuming. An algorithm can be described by a flowchart which may be stated in terms of a sequence of precise sentences or a block diagram. The latter is a diagrammatic representation of the sequence of events to be followed in solving the problem. The relationship between the events is shown by means of a connecting arrow. A block diagram can show if a process has to be repeated or if there are alternative routes to be taken. Step 3. The programmer must translate the algorithm of flowchart into a computer program. To do so he or she writes detailed instructions for the computer using one of the many computer languages available following the exact sequence of the flowchart algorithm. The program is usually written on coding sheets which have a specific format drawn on them. Step 4. The programmer must then keypunch the program or give the coding sheets to the keypunch operator to do it. The program is either punched on cards or entered into the computer at a terminal with a visual display unit. Step 5. The program must then be tested. To do so the computer operator puts the deck of card reader and presses the read button. This transfers the information to the memory of the computer. Next a printout .