Explore
Learn: What an Algorithm Is (Inputs, Processing, Outputs)
Pearson GCSE Computer Science 1CP2
Ready to start this lesson?
Sign in to track your progress. 13 steps including 7 interactive questions.
Sign In to Start Learning
Students also studied
Browse allSteps in this lesson (13)
Welcome!You've already learned about decomposition, abstraction, and how subprograms improve programming. Today, we'll build on that by exploring algorithms and understanding their key components: inputs, processing, and outputs.
What is an Algorithm?An algorithm is a step-by-step set of instructions to solve a problem or achieve a goal. It must be clear, precise, and produce the correct result for all valid inputs. Algorithms are fundamental to programming because they help design solutions logically.
Quick check: What is the purpose of an algorithm?
Start the lesson to answer this multiple choice question
Inputs, Processing, OutputsEvery algorithm involves three key components:Inputs — Data provided to the algorithm to begin processing.Processing — Steps or operations applied to the input data.Outputs — The final result produced by the algorithm.
An algorithm starts with {{blank0}}, applies {{blank1}}, and produces {{blank2}} as the result.
Start the lesson to answer this fill in the blank question
Real-World Example: Making a Cup of TeaConsider the algorithm for making tea:Input: Water, tea bag, cup.Processing: Boil water, pour it into the cup, steep the tea bag.Output: A cup of tea ready to drink!This illustrates how inputs, processing, and outputs work together.
Which of the following is an example of an output in the tea-making algorithm?
Start the lesson to answer this multiple choice question
Why Are Inputs Important?Inputs are essential because they provide the data an algorithm needs to start processing. Without inputs, an algorithm cannot produce meaningful outputs. For example, a sorting algorithm requires a list of numbers as input.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
Start the lesson to answer this matching question
Review Time!You've learned about algorithms and their key components: inputs, processing, and outputs. Now, let's test your understanding!
Which of the following are true about algorithms? (Select all that apply)
Start the lesson to answer this multi-select question
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
Start the lesson to answer this math equation question
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
Start the lesson to answer this code completion question
Want to Learn More?
Get personalised lessons, quizzes, and instant feedback from your AI tutor.
Explore More Topics