- 4.1 Introduction
- 4.2 Algorithms
- 4.3 Pseudocode
- 4.4 Control Structures
- 4.5 If...Then Selection Statement
- 4.6 If...Then...Else Selection Statement
- 4.7 Nested If...Then...Else Statements
- 4.8 Repetition Statements
- 4.9 Compound Assignment Operators
- 4.10 Formulating Algorithms: Counter-Controlled Repetition
- 4.11 Formulating Algorithms: Nested Control Statements
- 4.12 Using the Debugger: Locating a Logic Error
- 4.13 Wrap-Up
- Summary
- Terminology
- Self-Review Exercises
- Answers to Self-Review Exercises
- Quick Quiz
- Exercises
- Making a Difference Exercises
4.3 Pseudocode
Pseudocode is an informal language that helps you develop algorithms. It's similar to everyday English; it's convenient and user friendly, but not an actual computer programming language. The pseudocode we present is particularly useful for developing algorithms that will be converted to structured portions of Visual Basic programs.
Pseudocode programs are not executed on computers. Rather, they help you "think out" a program before writing it in a programming language. You can easily convert a carefully prepared pseudocode program to a corresponding Visual Basic program.
Pseudocode normally describes only statements representing the actions that occur after you convert a program from pseudocode to Visual Basic and run the program on a computer. Such actions might include input, output or calculations.