Programming Fundamentals Overview

Overview

This lecture provides a beginner-friendly overview of computer programming fundamentals, applicable to any language. Topics include programming basics, variables, control structures, data storage, errors, functions, pseudocode, language selection, and next steps.

What is Programming?

• Programming means giving computers detailed instructions to perform tasks without mistakes.
• Computers only understand machine code (binary), so humans use programming languages to communicate instructions.
• Programming languages act as interpreters between human commands and machine code.

Programming Languages & Syntax

• Programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++) range from low-level (close to binary) to high-level (easier for humans).
• Syntax: Each language has strict grammar rules; errors in syntax prevent programs from running.
• IDEs (Integrated Development Environments) help write, run, and debug code efficiently.

Basic Operations & Data Types

• Computers can perform arithmetic: addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (*), division (/), modulus (%).
• Strings are sequences of text within quotation marks.
• Concatenation joins strings and variables; data types matter (e.g., number vs. string "4").*

Variables

• Variables store information, each with a type, name, and value.
• Primitive types: integer (int), boolean (true/false), float/double (decimals), string (text), char (one character).
• Variables can be updated or referenced in code; naming conventions (like camelCase) improve readability.

Conditional Statements & Control Flow

• If statements execute code based on conditions; else/elif handle alternative cases.
• Switch statements handle multiple specific cases for a variable.
• Control structures enable programs to respond differently under different conditions.

Arrays, Lists, and Dictionaries

• Arrays store fixed-size collections of the same data type; each element is accessed by index (starting at 0).
• ArrayLists (lists) are dynamic arrays that can grow; dictionaries (key-value pairs) allow fast non-linear access to data.
• Multi-dimensional arrays (e.g., 2D arrays) store arrays within arrays.

Loops

• For loops repeat code a set number of times; for-each loops iterate through collections.
• While loops repeat code as long as a condition is true; do-while loops always execute at least once.
• Loops reduce code repetition and enable processing of collections.

Errors and Debugging

• Syntax errors violate language rules; runtime errors occur during execution (e.g., infinite loops); logic errors give wrong results.
• Debugging strategies: use IDE error messages, print statements, breakpoints, and commenting out code to isolate issues.
• Frequent testing and code backups help prevent and resolve bugs.

Functions

• Functions are reusable code blocks that can take arguments (inputs) and return values (outputs).
• There are functions with/without arguments and with/without return values (void).
• Functions increase code modularity and reusability; importing libraries gives access to pre-written functions.

Importing & Writing Functions

• Libraries and packages provide additional functions you can import as needed.
• Writing functions: clearly define arguments and return types; ensure every possible code path returns a value if needed.

Searching Algorithms

• Linear search scans each element one by one; works on unsorted data.
• Binary search repeatedly splits a sorted list; much more efficient for large sorted data sets.

Recursion & Call Stacks

• Recursion is when a function calls itself, often to break down complex problems.
• Base cases prevent infinite recursion; recursion relies on the call stack (last-in, first-out execution).

Pseudocode & Planning

• Pseudocode is planning your program logic in plain language or diagrams before coding.
• Popular methods include flowcharts, step-by-step write-ups, and feature/function breakdowns.

Choosing a Programming Language

• High-level languages (Python, Java) are easier for beginners; low-level languages (C, Assembly) are closer to hardware.
• Choose a language based on your project needs and personal preference.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Syntax — The set of rules for writing code in a language.
• IDE (Integrated Development Environment) — Software for writing, running, and debugging code.
• Variable — A named storage location for data.
• Array — A fixed-size collection of elements of the same type.
• Dictionary — A collection of key-value pairs for flexible data access.
• Function — A reusable block of code with a name, optional inputs (arguments), and optional outputs (returns).
• Recursion — A function calling itself to solve smaller instances of a problem.
• Debugging — The process of finding and fixing errors in code.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Research programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++) and select one to learn.
• Watch language-specific tutorial videos and complete beginner exercises.
• Practice coding with challenges on sites like CodingBat, Coderbyte, or HackerRank.
• Consider taking formal programming classes, especially if in high school.
• Use pseudocode to plan your programs before coding.