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Glossary
Look up any term from this course. Each entry links back to the lesson that taught it.
| Term | Definition | Lesson |
|---|---|---|
| Algorithm | A finite, ordered sequence of unambiguous steps that solves a problem or completes a task. | What Is an Algorithm? |
| Decision symbol | The diamond flowchart symbol containing a yes/no question, with two labelled exits. | Flowchart Symbols |
| Dry run | Working through an algorithm by hand, without a computer, to check it. | Trace Tables |
| Flowchart | A diagram that shows an algorithm using standard symbols joined by arrows. | Flowchart Symbols |
| Iteration (loop) | Repeating steps, either a set number of times or while/until a condition holds. | Loops in Flowcharts |
| Nested decision | A decision placed on one of the exits of another decision, giving more than two outcomes. | Nested Decisions |
| Off-by-one error | A logic error in which a loop runs one time too many or one time too few, usually caused by the wrong start value or by using < instead of <= (or the reverse). | Trace Tables |
| Pseudocode | A way of writing an algorithm in structured, English-like statements that resemble program code but are not tied to any programming language's exact syntax. | Pseudocode Basics |
| Selection | Choosing between paths depending on a condition (IF … THEN … ELSE). | Selection Flowcharts |
| Sentinel value | A special input value, such as 0, that signals the end of a loop's data. | Loops in Flowcharts |
| Sequence | Steps carried out one after another in order. | Sequence Flowcharts |
| Terminator | The rounded (oval) flowchart symbol for Start and Stop. | Flowchart Symbols |
| Trace table | A table used to dry-run an algorithm by hand, with a column for each variable, condition and output, and a new row each time a value changes. | Trace Tables |
More lessons in Algorithms, Flowcharts and Pseudocode · Previous: Course Exam