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Before computers can be used to solve a problem, the problem itself and the ways in which it could be resolved must be understood. Computational thinking techniques help with these tasks.

Before computers can solve a problem, the problem and the ways in which it can be resolved must be understood. Decomposition helps by breaking down complex problems into more manageable parts.

Once we have decomposed a complex problem, it helps to examine the small problems for similarities or ‘patterns’. These patterns can help us to solve complex problems more efficiently.

Once we have recognised patterns in our problems, we use abstraction to gather the general characteristics and to filter out of the details we do not need in order to solve our problem.

An algorithm is a plan, a set of step-by-step instructions to resolve a problem. In an algorithm, each instruction is identified and the order in which they should be carried out is planned.

Before solutions can be programmed, it is important to make sure that it properly satisfies the problem, and that it does so efficiently. This is done through evaluation.

Before designing an algorithm it is important to first understand what the problem is. Algorithms can be designed using pseudocode or a flowchart, and the standard notations of each should be known.

Searching for data can be very difficult. Searching algorithms, such as linear search and binary search, make the process of searching for data much easier.

Putting data into order can be difficult and time consuming. Sorting algorithms, such as bubble sort and bucket sort can help with this.

When designing algorithms, it is important to make sure that all the steps are presented in the correct order. This is known as sequencing, and can be displayed in pseudocode or flowcharts.

When designing algorithms, there are many steps where decisions must be made. This decision is known as selection, and can be displayed in pseudocode or flowcharts.

When designing algorithms, there may be some steps that need repeating. This is known as iteration, and can be displayed in pseudocode or flowcharts.

There is almost always more than one solution to a problem. Logical reasoning is used to predict the outcomes of the algorithms that are designed to solve a problem, to help select the best solution.

Programming is writing computer code to create a program, in order to solve a problem. Programs consist of a series of instructions to tell a computer exactly what to do and how to do it.

Programming is writing computer code to create a program, in order to solve a problem. To program a computer, you need to know how programs are constructed.

When designing programs, there are often points where a decision must be made. This decision is known as selection, and is implemented in programming using IF statements.

When designing programs, there may be some instructions that need repeating. This is known as iteration, and is implemented in programming using FOR and WHILE statements.

When designing programs, there are often points where a condition needs to be tested in order to make a decision. Conditions are formed using Boolean logic.

When writing programs, it is useful to use arrays and lists as they simplify programs by storing related data under one name.

When writing programs, we should avoid long, repetitive code. Procedures and functions help to keep our programs simple and short.

When writing programs, code should be as legible and error free as possible. Debugging helps keep code free of errors and documenting helps keep code clear enough to read.

Computers use binary to process data. There are simple techniques to convert between binary and denary and to add two binary numbers together.

Learn how text, images and sound are converted into binary so they can be processed by a computer and how images and sound are compressed to create smaller files.

Computers exist in many digital devices that we use on a day-to-day basis. Digital devices may be input, output or storage devices. On a basic level, they all operate through the use of logic gates.

Software is the programs that are run on computer hardware. There are two different types of software: systems software and applications software.

Learn about what the central processing unit is, its three main components, the factors that influence the CPU’s speed, and the fetch-execute cycle.

The two main types of network are wide area networks and local area networks. Learn what these are, and the benefits and problems of using them.

As a society we need to communicate and share. The internet allows us to communicate and share information in a matter of seconds.

The internet contains billions of pages of information. You use search engines to help you filter through the pages to find the information you need.

The internet is a fantastic tool and resource. By taking simple precautions, online dangers can largely be avoided and we can stay safe while online.

We use the internet to find information. However, finding information that is reliable and free of bias is as important as finding the information itself.

Computer-related laws exist to protect users. By being aware of the laws we can stay safe whilst online.