Learn Flowcharting and Pseudocode. Be a better programmer! from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objective

In this course, you will learn to effectively use the two major computer programming tools, pseudocode (sue-dough-code) and flow charts. the student will be able to start with a programming task or problem, break it down into its parts and accurately present the solution in either flow chart or pseudocode format.

Syllabus

Introduction: Course Objectives, definition of Flow Charts, Pseudocode, Algorithms, Computer Operations and Data Types

This video explains the content of this course. A brief definition and description of flow charts and pseudocode is given.

Provides the course objectives with some examples to give the student a preview of the course content. The course will teach the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode.

Answers the questions: "What is a flow chart?" and "What is pseudocode?" These are explained by showing samples of pseudocode and flow charts, emphasizing the simplicity of pseudocode and that the shapes of flow chart symbols have a specific meaning.

Pseudocode is a way of writing steps to solve a problem in a way that clearly shows how the computer works through the problem.

The term algorithm is defined as it relates to computer programming.

Creating a computer program is a very structured activity. This lecture describes one of several ways this can be achieved by identifying and organizing the process.

All computers have a very limited set of operations they perform. These steps are explained to give the student a fundamental view at the inside of a computer and how it functions. Knowing these operations allows the programmer to have a clear understanding of what the computer expects to see.
All information stored by a computer program has a specific data type. The simplest two data types are character information and numeric information. A list of data types in several languages is provided to acquaint the student with many of the specific ways a computer stores information.

Introduction to Flow Chart Symbols

Flow charts use many symbols. This lecture walks through the main symbols used in flowcharting and explains the shapes and the purpose of each shape.

The On-Page and Off-Page Connectors are the means to direct the program flow from one part of a page to another, or from one page to another in a flow chart. This lecture shows specific examples so the student can correctly use these connectors in their flow charts.

Introduction to Control Structures

All computer programs are put together using only three structures; Sequence, Decision (or Selection) and Repetition (or Loops). This lecture defines all three and gives examples so the student can identify and later create computer programs using these three structures.

This quiz tests your knowledge of the three main constructs in computer programming.

Twenty Three Hundred years ago, Euclid created the oldest algorithm that is still in use today in computers. The Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) algorithm is discussed in detail because of its historical significance and because it uses all three of the main control structures described in the previous lecture.

Algorithm and Control Structure Quiz

Sequential Operations

The most common control structure is Sequential Operations, where actions take place one after the other. This lecture describes this structure and gives examples of how to flow chart and write pseudocode for sequential operations. After the lecture, open the Lab below to practice the concepts of the lecture.

Decisions or Selection Structure

Comparison operators are the universal means by which computer programs can make comparisons and ask True/False questions to decide what action to take next. These operators will be covered in this lecture: =, ==, <, <=, >, >=, <> and !=.

Single Selection means: Ask a True/False question - - Take one action if the answer to the question is True, take no action if it is False. This lecture shows how to identify single selection situations and how to create accurate pseudocode and flow charts for these situations.

The control structure Dual Selection refers to locations in a computer program where one of two possible actions must be taken. Pseudocode and flow chart examples are given to show the student how to recognize and create this structure. After the lecture, open the Lab below to practice what you have learned.

In computer programming, there are often questions that can be answered in three or more ways, depending on the answers to a number of True/False questions. This lecture shows you how to recognize these occasions and how to create correct pseudocode and flow charts. Open the Lab below after the lecture to practice the skills learned here.

Many times a question needs to be asked inside another question. This lecture shows how this is a nested statement, how to recognize it, and how to accurately produce accurate pseudocode and flow charts in these situations. Open the Lab below after the lecture to practice creating nested if structures.

The Boolean Operators AND, OR, NOT are explained in detail. How to use these operators to correctly ask true/false questions is shown by example.

This quiz tests your knowledge of the three Boolean operators: AND, OR, NOT.
Do you understand how these operators are used in computer programming?

Repetition or Loops

Loops are the structures in computer programming that allow the computer to process one or many steps over and over until some condition is met.

This lecture covers the main types of loops (while, do...while, for...next), how to recognize the situation where a loop is needed and how to create loops.

This quiz covers the basics of loop construction, or how the computer sets up the parameters for operations that need to be repeated a number of times.

The information on loops is continued here in more detail.

This quiz test your knowledge of the control structure called the loop in computer programming.

Examples and Practice Exercises

Examples

Summary and Close

Summary

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores computer programming fundamentals, including pseudocode and flow charts, which are essential skills for programmers

Taught by Richard Vannoy, a seasoned professional programmer and instructor with over 25 years of experience, you'll learn from an expert in the field

Covers a range of programming concepts, from basic operations to control structures and loops, providing a well-rounded foundation

Provides clear and concise explanations through a combination of video sessions, exercises, and handouts, making learning accessible

Focuses on generic programming concepts, applicable to any programming language, ensuring transferrable skills

Requires no prerequisite knowledge, making it suitable for complete beginners in programming

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learn Flowcharting and Pseudocode. Be a better programmer! with these activities:

Review Logic and Problem-Solving Fundamentals

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Strengthen your foundation by revisiting the fundamentals of logic and problem-solving, which are essential for understanding flowcharts and pseudocode, ensuring a solid base for your learning journey.

Browse courses on Logic

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Review materials on basic logic concepts, such as truth tables and logical operators.
Practice solving simple logic puzzles to enhance your reasoning skills.
Identify different problem-solving techniques and their applications.

Revisit Basic Programming Concepts

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Refresh your memory on the fundamental concepts of programming, including data types, variables, operators, and control structures, ensuring a solid foundation for comprehending flowcharts and pseudocode.

Browse courses on Programming

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Review notes or online resources on basic programming concepts.
Complete practice exercises to reinforce your understanding.

Engage in Peer Review and Discussion of Flowcharts and Pseudocode

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Enhance your understanding by sharing your flowcharts and pseudocode with peers, receiving feedback, and engaging in discussions to refine your creations and expand your knowledge.

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Create a flowchart or pseudocode for a specific problem.
Share your work with a peer and ask for feedback.
Review the feedback and make necessary revisions to your flowchart or pseudocode.
Engage in discussions with your peer to exchange ideas and improve your understanding.

Eight other activities

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Follow online tutorials on flow charting and pseudocoding

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Gain additional guidance and insights from experts in these areas.

Browse courses on Pseudocode

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Search for reputable online platforms or instructors offering tutorials.
Select tutorials that cover specific topics you need to strengthen.
Follow the instructions and practice the techniques demonstrated.

Practice flow charting and pseudocoding

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Practice these skills regularly to improve your understanding and proficiency.

Browse courses on Pseudocode

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Find practice problems or exercises online or in textbooks.
Create your own flow charts and pseudocode for simple programming tasks.
Compare your solutions with others to learn from different approaches.

Complete Online Pseudocode and Flowchart Quizzes

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Reinforce your understanding of flowcharts and pseudocode by completing online quizzes that test your knowledge of these concepts.

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Visit the Udemy platform and access the course materials.
Locate the online quizzes for pseudocode and flowcharting.
Take the quizzes and answer the questions to the best of your ability.
Review your results and identify areas where you need additional practice.

Collaborate with peers on flow charting and pseudocoding projects

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Working with others can enhance your understanding and problem-solving abilities.

Browse courses on Pseudocode

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Form study groups or connect with classmates online.
Choose a project or exercise to work on together.
Discuss and share ideas, providing feedback and support.
Present your final work to the group for constructive criticism.

Analyze and Translate Flowcharts and Pseudocode into Programming Code

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Bridge the gap between flowcharting and pseudocoding to actual programming by practicing translating these representations into executable code, solidifying your understanding of the relationship between these concepts and programming languages.

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Select a flowchart or pseudocode that represents a problem or algorithm.
Determine the programming language you want to translate the flowchart or pseudocode into.
Write the code in the chosen programming language, ensuring it accurately reflects the logic of the flowchart or pseudocode.
Test and debug the code to ensure it functions as expected.

Create a flow chart and pseudocode for a real-world programming problem

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Apply your skills to solve a practical problem, solidifying your understanding and demonstrating your proficiency.

Browse courses on Pseudocode

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Identify a real-world problem that can be solved using programming.
Break down the problem into smaller, manageable steps.
Create a flow chart and pseudocode to represent the solution.
Test and refine your solution to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

Develop a Flowchart and Pseudocode for a Real-World Problem

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Apply your knowledge of flowcharts and pseudocode by creating your own representations for a real-world problem, solidifying your understanding of how to translate real-world scenarios into these programming tools.

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Identify a real-world problem that can be solved using a flowchart and pseudocode.
Break down the problem into smaller, manageable steps.
Create a flowchart that visually represents the steps involved in solving the problem.
Write pseudocode that describes the steps in the flowchart in a structured and easy-to-understand manner.
Test your flowchart and pseudocode to ensure they accurately solve the problem.

Explore Online Tutorials on Advanced Flowcharting and Pseudocoding Techniques

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Expand your knowledge of flowcharting and pseudocoding by exploring online tutorials that cover advanced techniques, enabling you to create more complex and efficient representations of programming solutions.

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Search for online tutorials on advanced flowcharting and pseudocoding techniques.
Choose a tutorial that aligns with your learning goals and skill level.
Follow the tutorial and complete the exercises to enhance your understanding of advanced techniques.
Apply the techniques you learned to create more sophisticated flowcharts and pseudocode.

Career center

Learners who complete Learn Flowcharting and Pseudocode. Be a better programmer! will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst works with businesses to identify and solve problems. They analyze business processes, identify areas for improvement, and recommend solutions. This course may be useful to Business Analysts, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for documenting and communicating business processes, and can help Business Analysts to be more effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of software systems. They work on a variety of projects, from small business applications to large-scale enterprise systems. This course may be useful to Software Engineers, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for designing and documenting software systems, and can help Software Engineers to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to help businesses make informed decisions. They use a variety of tools and techniques to extract insights from data, and present their findings in a clear and concise way. This course may be useful to Data Analysts, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for organizing and documenting data analysis processes, and can help Data Analysts to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of database systems. They work with businesses to identify their data needs, and then design and build database systems to meet those needs. This course may be useful to Database Administrators, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for designing and documenting database systems, and can help Database Administrators to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

IT Project Manager

An IT Project Manager is responsible for the planning, execution, and control of IT projects. They work with project teams to define project scope, develop project plans, and track project progress. This course may be useful to IT Project Managers, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for documenting and communicating project plans, and can help IT Project Managers to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Project Manager

Web Developer

A Web Developer is responsible for building and maintaining websites. They work on the design, coding, and functionality of websites, and make sure that they are accessible and user-friendly. This course may be useful to Web Developers, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for designing and documenting websites, and can help Web Developers to create more efficient and effective websites.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst is responsible for the protection of an organization's IT systems and data. They work with IT professionals to identify and mitigate security risks, and develop and implement security policies and procedures. This course may be useful to Information Security Analysts, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for documenting and communicating security processes, and can help Information Security Analysts to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Technical Writer

A Technical Writer creates documentation for software, hardware, and other technical products. They work with engineers and other technical professionals to gather information, and then write clear and concise documentation that explains how to use and maintain technical products. This course may be useful to Technical Writers, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for documenting technical products, and can help Technical Writers to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Information Technology Manager

An Information Technology Manager is responsible for the overall management of an organization's IT systems and infrastructure. They work with senior management to develop and implement IT strategies, and oversee the day-to-day operations of IT systems. This course may be useful to Information Technology Managers, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for documenting and communicating IT processes, and can help Information Technology Managers to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

Software Developer

A Software Developer is a professional who works on software and applications. They design, build, maintain, and fix programs that run on computers, mobile phones, and even game consoles and digital entertainment systems. This course may be useful to Software Developers, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for designing and documenting software programs, and can help Software Developers to create more efficient and effective code.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Systems Analyst

A Systems Analyst designs, develops, and implements computer systems. They work with businesses to identify their needs, and then design and build systems to meet those needs. This course may be useful to Systems Analysts, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for designing and documenting computer systems, and can help Systems Analysts to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Computer Support Specialist

A Computer Support Specialist provides technical support to users of computers and other electronic devices. They work with users to resolve technical issues, and provide training on how to use computers and other electronic devices. This course may be useful to Computer Support Specialists, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for documenting and communicating technical processes, and can help Computer Support Specialists to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Support Specialist

Software Architect

A Software Architect is responsible for the overall design and architecture of software systems. They work with software engineers and other IT professionals to design and build software systems that meet the needs of businesses and organizations. This course may be useful to Software Architects, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for designing and documenting software systems, and can help Software Architects to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect

User Experience Designer

A User Experience Designer is responsible for the design of user interfaces for websites, software applications, and other digital products. They work with designers and other IT professionals to create user interfaces that are easy to use and understand. This course may be useful to User Experience Designers, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for documenting and communicating user interface design, and can help User Experience Designers to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Designer

Computer Programmer

A Computer Programmer writes code that runs on computers. They work with software developers and other IT professionals to design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course may be useful to Computer Programmers, as it teaches the fundamentals of flowcharting and pseudocode. These are two important tools for designing and documenting software programs, and can help Computer Programmers to be more efficient and effective in their work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer