Computer programming

What is Programming?

A computer program consists of a group of instructions for a computer  that cause it to perform a desired task. 

The computer program is a means to an end. The end will normally be defined as information that is a needed to solve a problem. The programming process is therefore, a problem-solving process, 

and it consists of the following activities:

      Defining the problem

      Preparing an algorithm

      Preparing a program flowchart

      Coding the program

      Debugging and Testing

      Documenting

Defining the Problem:

The definition of the problem begins with a statement of the desired output. Unless this statement is correct and clear, all succeeding activities will be of doubtful value. The statement should be in writing so that misunderstandings can be minimized.

Preparing an Algorithm:

Once the problem has been defined, we can prepare an algorithm (a description of the sequence of steps required to solve a problem). In defining an algorithm that will work on a computer, we must consider the computer’s limited capabilities:

# A computer can perform arithmetic operations (usually limited to addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).

# It can compare two things and on the basis of the result of the comparison, choose among alternative courses of action.

# It can move data about in its memory

# The computer can also input data and output result.