Introduction to Problem Solving Programming Fundamentals

Introduction to Problem Solving

Learn the basics of programming logic in this Introduction to Problem Solving guide. Explore algorithms, flowcharts, and real-life examples step-by-step.

What Is Problem Solving in Programming?

Problem solving in programming means finding a clear, logical path to reach a desired outcome before writing any code. It’s the process of understanding a problem, planning a solution, and testing it using algorithms or flowcharts.

Key Steps in Problem Solving:

1. Identify the problem
2. Analyze the problem
3. Develop an algorithm
4. (Optional) Use a flowchart
5. Choose programming constructs
6. Test with examples

→ Explore how modern hackers exploit system weaknesses and learn the defensive strategies every AI and CS student should understand The Powerful Anatomy of Cyber Threats & Attack Vectors (Part 1)

Step 1 – Identify and Analyze the Problem

The first step is understanding what needs to be solved.

Example:
“I need a program that calculates the average marks of 5 students.”

Break it down:

• Input: 5 marks
• Process: Add them and divide by 5
• Output: Average marks

This structure Input → Process → Output — is the core of all programs.

→ Discover how data structures form the building blocks of programming logic — the next step after mastering problem-solving fundamentals Introduction to Data Structures 2025

Step 2 – Develop an Algorithm

An algorithm is a step-by-step solution written in simple English (not code). It helps organize logic before programming.

Example Algorithm:

1. Start
2. Input 5 marks
3. Add all marks
4. Divide sum by 5
5. Display average
6. End

Why it Matters:
Algorithms save time, reduce errors, and improve clarity before you begin coding.

Step 3 – Use Flowcharts ( Optional )

A flowchart is a visual representation of your algorithm using shapes and arrows.

Common Flowchart Symbols:

Shape	Meaning
Oval (Ellipse)	Start / End
Parallelogram	Input / Output
Rectangle	Process / Calculation
Diamond	Decision (Yes/No)

Flowcharts make program logic easy to understand and debug.

→ Understand how logic gates and binary systems drive every computational process — the true foundation of artificial intelligence Digital Logic Design (DLD) – Foundation of Computing & AI

Step 4 – Choose Programming Constructs

After planning, decide how to implement your algorithm:

• Variables: Store data
• Conditions: Make decisions
• Loops: Repeat actions
• Functions: Organize tasks

This is where logic meets syntax in actual coding.

Step 5 – Test with Examples

Testing is the final phase. Try your algorithm with sample data to verify correctness.

Example:
If marks = 50, 60, 70, 80, 90
→ Sum = 350 → Average = 70

Real-Life Example – Making Tea

Programming logic exists everywhere — even in daily life!

Steps:

1. Boil water
2. Add tea leaves
3. Add milk and sugar
4. Stir well
5. Serve tea

Input: Water, Milk, Sugar | Process: Boiling & Mixing | Output: Hot Tea

Why Problem Solving Matters

Programming is not about syntax — it’s about thinking logically and structuring solutions.

Benefits:

• Saves time and reduces errors
• Builds logical thinking
• Enhances creativity and precision
• Forms the foundation for coding and AI development

Summary

Concept	Meaning
Problem Solving	Planning the solution before coding
Algorithm	Step-by-step instructions
Flowchart	Visual logic representation
Testing	Ensuring accuracy and reliability

In short:

“Good programmers don’t memorize syntax they master problem solving.”