Now, I’m sure you’re itching to develop your first programs. However, it save us alot of headache, it’s wise to discuss the workflow of programming because ultimately, the program exists to solve a problem. Let’s make that step 1:
Here is the complete flowchart. Let’s analyse it step by step
Step 1 – Scrutinize the problem
What problem are you intending to solve?
For example:
- I want to write a program that will allow me to enter many numbers, then calculates the average.
- I want to write a program that generates a 2d maze and lets the user navigate through it. The user wins if they reach the end
Step 2 – Design a solution
This is the HOW. Note that are can exist multiple solutions for a problem. Some are good, some are bad. Take this time to design the best solution given the problem.
Don’t rush a solution.
That results in bugs.
The majority of a software developer’s time isn’t actually spent writing the program. It’s spent on maintenance, which is caused by a lack of planning. Thus, it pays to invest in planning now to avoid headaches in the future.
Despite every problem requiring a unique solution, good solutions tend to share a few key qualities
- They are straightforward
- They are modular
- They are well documented
- They handle errors effectively
Step 3 – Program the solution
Aahh. The fun part.
This is where you put your programming skills to the test
Step 4 – Compile the program
This will be covered in the next nibble.