D684(WGU) - Introduction to Computer Science

D684(WGU) - Introduction to Computer Science quizlette48194623 Modified 07/04/25 Save Share

Section 1: Introduction to Computer Science

1.1: Key Data Types and Concepts

1.2: Variables and Their Types

Data types are fundamental in programming, defining the nature of data that can be stored and manipulated.Analog Data: Represents information in a continuous form, such as sound waves or light intensity, contrasting with digital data which is discrete.• Digital Data: Composed of binary values (0s and 1s), it is the basis for all computing processes and storage.•

Data Compression: Techniques like Huffman encoding and run-length encoding

reduce data size for efficient storage and transmission, with lossless and lossy methods serving different needs.• Control Structures: Essential programming constructs (like loops and conditionals) that dictate the flow of execution in algorithms, enabling complex decision-making processes.• Boolean Expressions: Logical statements that evaluate to true or false, forming the backbone of decision-making in programming.• Variables are named storage locations in memory that can hold different values throughout a program's execution. Give it a go

1.3: Constructs and Control Flow

1.4: Operators and Precedence

Assignment Operator: The

= symbol is used to assign values to variables, crucial for initializing and updating data.• Data Types: Variables can be of various types, including numeric (integers, floats) and string types, which dictate how data is processed and stored.• Naming Conventions: Different styles like camel casing, snake casing, and Hungarian notation help in writing readable and maintainable code.• Type Safety: Ensures that variables are used consistently with their declared data types, preventing runtime errors.• Constructs in programming define how algorithms are structured and executed, impacting efficiency and clarity.Algorithms: Step-by-step instructions for solving problems, often represented in pseudocode for clarity before implementation.• Loops: Structures that repeat a block of code, with types like pretest loops (e.g., while

• and infinite loops that can lead to errors if not managed properly.

• Branching: Decision points in algorithms that allow for different execution paths based on conditions, essential for dynamic programming.• Nested Structures: Allow for complex logic by placing one control structure inside another, increasing the power of algorithms.• Operators are symbols that perform operations on variables and values, crucial for data manipulation in programming.

Order of Operations: Rules that dictate the sequence in which operations are

performed, ensuring consistent results in expressions.•

1.5: Summary of Key Concepts

1.2: Variables and Their Importance

Associativity: Defines the direction in which operators of the same precedence are evaluated, either left-to-right or right-to-left.•

Magic Numbers: Hard-coded values that lack context, making code less readable;

using named constants is a better practice.•

Overhead: Refers to additional resources required by a program beyond its core

functionality, impacting performance.• Understanding data types and their implications is crucial for effective programming and memory management.Data Types: Include integers, floating-point numbers, characters, and Booleans, each serving specific purposes in data handling.•

Memory Management: Efficient use of data types helps in optimizing memory usage

and performance in applications.•

Programming Constructs: Control structures and algorithms are foundational for

developing functional and efficient software solutions.•

Variable Management: Proper naming conventions and type safety practices

enhance code readability and maintainability.• Variables are crucial for storing and manipulating data in programs, allowing for dynamic data handling.

Variable Declaration: Involves specifying a variable's name and type, such as

int x; , which prepares the program to allocate memory for that variable.•

Assignment Operators: The

= •

1.3: Constructs and Control Structures

symbol is used to assign values to variables, e.g., x = 5; , which sets the variable x to 5.Type Safety: Ensures that variables are used consistently with their declared data types, preventing runtime errors and enhancing code reliability.• Control structures dictate the flow of execution in programs, enabling decision-making and repetition.Algorithms: Step-by-step instructions that outline how to solve a problem or perform a task, often represented in pseudocode for clarity.•

Loops: Constructs like

for and while allow for repeated execution of code blocks, with control variables determining loop continuation.•

Branching: Using constructs like

if-else •