Problem Solving andStepwise Refinement

• Text: Section 1.5 - 1.6

• Blue Book: Stepwise Refinement (p. 12-24)

• Problem Solving:

  • Define the problem
  • Determine the Outputs
  • Determine the Inputs
  • Derive the Algorithm

• Stepwise Refinement of an Algorithm:

  • Steps are followed in order
  • Each stepwise refinement is indented
  • Each indentation explains how to do the higher-level step above it
  • No more than half a dozen steps at any level of indentation
  • Don’t focus on detail and refinement until all the higher-level steps are understood