Algorithm Inputs, Processes & Outputs
- Applying algorithmic thinking leads to a set of precise step-by-step instructions that can solve a problem
- To create an algorithm, the inputs, processes and outputs must be identified
What is an input?
- An input is data or information being entered/taken into a program before it is processed in the algorithm
- An input can come from a variety of sources, such as:
- User - keyboard, mouse, controller, microphone
- Sensors - temperature, pressure, movement
What is a process?
- A process is a doing action performed in the algorithm that transforms inputs into the desired output. The central processing unit (CPU) executes the instructions that define the process
- An example would be:
- Comparing two numbers
- Calculating an average
What is an output?
- An output is the result of the processing in an algorithm and usually the way a user can see if an algorithm works as intended
- An output can take various forms, such as:
- Numbers - result of calculations
- Text
- Images
- Actions - triggering events
Example 1 - Area of a shape
- A user wants to write a program to calculate the area of a shape
| Input | Process | Output |
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Example 2 - Average test score
- A teacher wants to calculate the average mark achieved on a test amongst students in a class. The teacher needs to enter how many students in the class and for each students a score out of 50
| Input | Process | Output |
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Worked example
A bus company offers a discount to passengers if they have a valid 'student' card or are over 65 years of age.
Identify all the inputs that will be required in an algorithm to solve this problem [2]
Answer
- Student card (YES/NO)
- Age (integer)
