Fundamentals of Problem Solving The Problem Solving Aspect

Fundamentals of Problem Solving

The Problem Solving Aspect

Top-down Design • Top-down design - in which design begins by specifying complex pieces and then dividing them into successively smaller pieces • A top-down approach (also known as stepwise design) is essentially the breaking down of a system to gain insight into the sub-systems that make it up. • In a top-down approach an overview of the system is formulated, specifying but not detailing any first-level subsystems. • Each subsystem is then refined in yet greater detail, sometimes in many additional subsystem levels, until the entire specification is reduced to base elements. • Once these base elements are recognised then we can build these as computer modules. • Once they are built we can put them together, making the entire system from these individual components. • Eg: - making cake

Algorithm An algorithm is a step by step method of solving a problem. It is commonly used for data processing, calculation and other related computer and mathematical operations.

flowchart • A flowchart is a type of diagram that represents an algorithm, workflow or process. • The flowchart shows the steps as boxes of various kinds, and their order by connecting the boxes with arrows. • This diagrammatic representation illustrates a solution model to a given problem. • Efficiency increases. • The flowchart lists each step necessary to perform a process. The flowchart helps a designer remove unnecessary steps in a process, as well as errors. • The flowchart should only include the steps that are requirements to reach the endpoint of the process.

Flowchart symbols

Sample Algorithms • • • Sum, Average, Finding Smallest Number, Checking Odd/Even Number, Prime Number, Quadratic Equation