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Learn Effective Pseudocode Writing

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libby Moxey

24/11/2025

Computer Science

Pseudocode notes

445

24 Nov 2025

6 pages

Learn Effective Pseudocode Writing

Pseudocode is your stepping stone to proper programming - it's... Show more

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Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Variables and Data Types

Getting comfortable with variables is absolutely crucial - they're basically containers that store information your program needs to remember. You create them using the equals sign, like name = "Bob", and it's that simple.

Here's something important to remember: variables created inside a function stay local to that function (they can't be used elsewhere). However, if you want to make a variable from your main program local to a specific function, just use the local keyword, or make it available everywhere with global.

Casting lets you convert between different data types, which you'll use constantly. The functions str(), int(), and float() are your best mates here - str(3) gives you "3", whilst int("3") gives you the number 3.

Quick Tip: Think of casting like translation - you're converting data from one "language" (type) to another so different parts of your program can understand it.

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Input, Output and Loops

The print command is your window to the world - it displays whatever you want on screen. You can print text directly with print("hello") or show what's stored in a variable by printing the variable itself.

Count controlled iteration (for loops) runs a specific number of times. The example for i=0 to 7 actually runs 8 times because it includes both 0 and 7 - this catches loads of students out in exams!

Condition controlled iteration keeps going until something changes. While loops check the condition first, then run the code. Do-until loops run the code first, then check - this guarantees the code runs at least once, which is sometimes exactly what you need.

Remember: Count when you know how many times, condition when you're waiting for something to happen!

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Decision Making and Text Handling

If-else statements are like having a conversation with your program - you're giving it different responses based on what the user does. The structure flows from if to elseif (for additional conditions) to else thecatchallbackupthe catch-all backup.

Switch-case statements do the same job but look much cleaner when you've got loads of options to check. They're brilliant for menu systems where users might choose A, B, C, or something completely random.

String handling gives you superpowers with text. Use .length to find out how long a string is, and .substring() to grab specific chunks of text. The substring method needs two numbers: where to start and how many characters to take.

Pro Tip: Switch statements are your friend for multiple choices - they're much easier to read than endless if-elseif chains!

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Subroutines and Arrays

Functions and procedures are like having helpful assistants in your code. Functions do a job and give you something back (using return), whilst procedures just do a job without returning anything. Think of functions as questions that need answers, procedures as commands that just get done.

Arrays are incredibly useful for storing lists of related data. They start counting from 0 (not 1!), so your first item is always at position 0. Declare them with the array keyword and a size, then fill them up with your data.

File handling lets your programs remember things between runs. Use openRead() to get information from files and readLine() to grab it line by line. Don't forget to close() your files when you're finished - it's like putting the lid back on a jar.

Key Point: Always remember arrays start at 0 - this trips up even experienced programmers sometimes!

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

File Operations and OOP Basics

Writing to files works similarly to reading, but you use openWrite() and writeLine() instead. This is brilliant for saving user data, high scores, or any information your program needs to remember for next time.

Object-oriented programming introduces methods (what objects can do) and attributes (what objects know about themselves). Everything is public (accessible everywhere) unless you specifically make it private with the private keyword.

Constructors are special procedures called new that set up your objects when they're first created. They're like the instruction manual that gets your object ready to use - setting initial values and getting everything organised.

Remember: Think of private attributes like your diary - only you (the object) should be able to read and change them directly!

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Classes and Inheritance

Classes are like blueprints for creating objects. The Pet class example shows how you define what all pets should have (a name) and what they can do (be created with a given name through the constructor).

Inheritance is absolutely brilliant - it lets you create new classes based on existing ones without starting from scratch. The Dog class inherits everything from Pet, then adds its own special features (like breed).

The super.new() call is clever - it runs the parent class's constructor first, then adds the new stuff. This means Dog objects get both a name (from Pet) and a breed (from Dog) without duplicating code.

Think of it this way: If Pet is like a general animal template, Dog is a more specific version that keeps all the pet features but adds dog-specific ones!



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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Computer Science

445

24 Nov 2025

6 pages

Learn Effective Pseudocode Writing

Pseudocode is your stepping stone to proper programming - it's like writing instructions in plain English before converting them into actual code. These notes cover all the essential building blocks you'll need for your programming coursework, from basic variables to... Show more

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

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Variables and Data Types

Getting comfortable with variables is absolutely crucial - they're basically containers that store information your program needs to remember. You create them using the equals sign, like name = "Bob", and it's that simple.

Here's something important to remember: variables created inside a function stay local to that function (they can't be used elsewhere). However, if you want to make a variable from your main program local to a specific function, just use the local keyword, or make it available everywhere with global.

Casting lets you convert between different data types, which you'll use constantly. The functions str(), int(), and float() are your best mates here - str(3) gives you "3", whilst int("3") gives you the number 3.

Quick Tip: Think of casting like translation - you're converting data from one "language" (type) to another so different parts of your program can understand it.

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Input, Output and Loops

The print command is your window to the world - it displays whatever you want on screen. You can print text directly with print("hello") or show what's stored in a variable by printing the variable itself.

Count controlled iteration (for loops) runs a specific number of times. The example for i=0 to 7 actually runs 8 times because it includes both 0 and 7 - this catches loads of students out in exams!

Condition controlled iteration keeps going until something changes. While loops check the condition first, then run the code. Do-until loops run the code first, then check - this guarantees the code runs at least once, which is sometimes exactly what you need.

Remember: Count when you know how many times, condition when you're waiting for something to happen!

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Decision Making and Text Handling

If-else statements are like having a conversation with your program - you're giving it different responses based on what the user does. The structure flows from if to elseif (for additional conditions) to else thecatchallbackupthe catch-all backup.

Switch-case statements do the same job but look much cleaner when you've got loads of options to check. They're brilliant for menu systems where users might choose A, B, C, or something completely random.

String handling gives you superpowers with text. Use .length to find out how long a string is, and .substring() to grab specific chunks of text. The substring method needs two numbers: where to start and how many characters to take.

Pro Tip: Switch statements are your friend for multiple choices - they're much easier to read than endless if-elseif chains!

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Subroutines and Arrays

Functions and procedures are like having helpful assistants in your code. Functions do a job and give you something back (using return), whilst procedures just do a job without returning anything. Think of functions as questions that need answers, procedures as commands that just get done.

Arrays are incredibly useful for storing lists of related data. They start counting from 0 (not 1!), so your first item is always at position 0. Declare them with the array keyword and a size, then fill them up with your data.

File handling lets your programs remember things between runs. Use openRead() to get information from files and readLine() to grab it line by line. Don't forget to close() your files when you're finished - it's like putting the lid back on a jar.

Key Point: Always remember arrays start at 0 - this trips up even experienced programmers sometimes!

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

File Operations and OOP Basics

Writing to files works similarly to reading, but you use openWrite() and writeLine() instead. This is brilliant for saving user data, high scores, or any information your program needs to remember for next time.

Object-oriented programming introduces methods (what objects can do) and attributes (what objects know about themselves). Everything is public (accessible everywhere) unless you specifically make it private with the private keyword.

Constructors are special procedures called new that set up your objects when they're first created. They're like the instruction manual that gets your object ready to use - setting initial values and getting everything organised.

Remember: Think of private attributes like your diary - only you (the object) should be able to read and change them directly!

Pseudocode notes
Variables
• assigned using =
o name "Bob"
• variables declared within a function are local to that function
• variables dec

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Classes and Inheritance

Classes are like blueprints for creating objects. The Pet class example shows how you define what all pets should have (a name) and what they can do (be created with a given name through the constructor).

Inheritance is absolutely brilliant - it lets you create new classes based on existing ones without starting from scratch. The Dog class inherits everything from Pet, then adds its own special features (like breed).

The super.new() call is clever - it runs the parent class's constructor first, then adds the new stuff. This means Dog objects get both a name (from Pet) and a breed (from Dog) without duplicating code.

Think of it this way: If Pet is like a general animal template, Dog is a more specific version that keeps all the pet features but adds dog-specific ones!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

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4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user