Problem Solving and Program Concepts (6th Edition)

Ideal for novice and experienced programmers alike, this book shows readers how problem solving is the same in all computer languages—regardless of syntax. Using a step-by-step, generic, non-language-specific approach—with detailed explanations and many illustrations—it presents the tools and concepts required when using any programming language to develop computer applications. The focus throughout is on the use of problem solving tools—including problem analysis charts, interactivity (structure) charts, IPO charts, coupling diagrams, algorithms, flowcharts, and (in appendices) Universal Modeling Languages concepts, Nassi-Schneiderman charts, and Warnier-Orr diagrams. Techniques are detailed for applications such as page layout, spreadsheets, database management systems, and document processing, and Putting It All Together sections show readers how to put individual problem-solving techniques together into viable strategies for tackling specific kinds of problems/applications. General Problem Solving Concepts. Programming Concepts. Problem Solving with the Sequential Logic Structure; with Decisions; with Loops; with the Case Logic Structure. Processing Arrays. Data Structures. Database Concepts. Concepts of Object Oriented Programming. Object Oriented Program Design. File Concepts. Sequential-Access File Applications. Sequential-Access File Updating. Random Access File Processing and Updating. Problem Solving for Word Processing and Desktop Publishing; for Spreadsheets; for Document Processing.

This text covers the basic problem-solving concepts that readers need to know and understand when working in any computer language or application. With detailed explanations and numerous illustrations, it encompasses all fundamental areas of problem solving from the basics of mathematical functions and operators to the design and use of codes, indicators, control breaks, arrays, pointers, file updates, and report handling. Problem-solving tools, including problem analysis charts, interactive charts, IPO charts, algorithms, and flowcharts are used to design a solution to a problem.

This edition is divided into six parts, organized as follows:

Unit 1, Introduction to Problem Solving and Programming—Problem solving, an introduction to how problems are solved on computers, mathematical concepts, and steps for analyzing a problem and designing an appropriate solution

Unit 2, Programming Logic Structure—Programming that includes local and global variables, parameters, and sequential, decision, loop, and case logic structures

Unit 3, Data Structures—Arrays, sorting techniques, search methods, stacks, linked lists, binary trees, and databases

Unit 4, Object-Oriented ProgrammingDesign of a solution using object-oriented languages

Unit 5, File Processing—File concepts, sequential file processing, and random access file processing

Unit 6, Problem Solving for Application Software—Word processing, design, spreadsheets, and information processing