WHAT IS A PROGRAM

What is a program

A program is a set of instructions or a sequence of code that is written in a programming language to perform a specific task or a series of tasks on a computer. These instructions provide the computer with a step-by-step guide on what actions to take, how to process data, and how to produce desired outcomes. Programs can range from simple calculations to complex applications, and they encompass various tasks like data manipulation, user interaction, calculations, and more.

Programs can be written in various programming languages, each designed to communicate with a computer and execute commands. Once a program is written, it needs to be translated into machine-readable code, which is usually done by a compiler or interpreter. The resulting machine code can then be executed by the computer's central processing unit (CPU) to perform the specified tasks outlined in the program.

In essence, a program is the fundamental building block of software development, allowing developers to create a wide range of applications and solutions to address various needs and problems. Whether it's a game, a web application, a mobile app, or any other software, all of them are ultimately the result of a carefully crafted program.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is Algorithm

An algorithm is a description of a procedure which terminates with a result. Algorithm is a step-by-step method of solving a problem.
Properties of an Algorithm:
  1. Finiteness: - An algorithm terminates after a finite numbers of steps.
  2. Definiteness: - Each step in algorithm is unambiguous. This means that the action specified by the step cannot be interpreted (explain the meaning of) in multiple ways & can be performed without any confusion.
  3. Input: - An algorithm accepts zero or more inputs
  4. Output:- An algorithm should produce at least one output.
  5. Effectiveness: - It consists of basic instructions that are realizable. This means that the instructions can be performed by using the given inputs in a finite amount of time.

Writing an algorithm

An algorithm can be written in English, like sentences and using mathematical formulas. Sometimes algorithm written in English like language is Pseudo code.

Examples

1. Finding the average of three numbers
Let a,b,c are three integers
Let d is float
Display the message “Enter any three integers:”
Read three integers and stores in a,b,c
Compute the d = (a+b+c)/3.0
Display “The avg is:” , d
End.

 

What is Flowcharts

The pictorial representation of algorithm is called flowchart.

Uses of flow chart
1. flow chart helps to understand the program easily.
2. as different symbols are used to specify the type of operation performed, it is easier to understand the complex programs with the help of flowcharts.
 

What is SDLC

 

SDLC stands for Software Development Life Cycle. It's a systematic process used by software developers to design, develop, test, and deploy high-quality software applications. SDLC is a structured approach that helps ensure efficient and effective software development while maintaining quality and minimizing risks. The main stages of SDLC typically include:

  1. Requirements Gathering and Analysis: In this phase, the project team gathers and documents requirements from stakeholders to understand what the software should achieve and how it should function.

  2. System Design: Designers create a detailed blueprint of the software, outlining its architecture, components, data flow, user interfaces, and interactions. This phase involves both high-level architectural design and low-level component design.

  3. Implementation or Coding: Developers write the actual code based on the design specifications. They convert the design into executable code using programming languages and development tools.

  4. Testing: The software is rigorously tested to identify and fix defects, ensuring that it functions as intended. This phase involves various testing types, such as unit testing, integration testing, system testing, and user acceptance testing.

  5. Deployment: Once the software passes testing and quality checks, it's deployed to the production environment for actual use by end-users.

  6. Maintenance and Support: After deployment, the software requires ongoing maintenance, updates, and bug fixes to ensure its performance, security, and functionality.