What is Computer Science?

The study of data, data structures, and algorithms—and how to process them efficiently and reliably on computers.

• Data: numbers, text, images, signals—all represented as bits.
• Data structures: ways to organize data (arrays, lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs, hash tables).
• Algorithms: step-by-step methods to solve problems (searching, sorting, pathfinding, optimization).

5 Stages of Development (Problem-Solving Cycle)

1. Identifying the problem: clarify inputs, outputs, constraints, and success criteria.
2. Analyzing potential solutions: compare approaches, time/space costs, edge cases, risks.
3. Designing the solution of choice: choose data structures, outline steps (pseudocode/flowcharts), plan tests.
4. Implementing the solution: write code, modularize, document, and unit test.
5. Evaluating the solution: test thoroughly, profile performance, collect feedback, iterate.

Programming

Programming is a way of thinking: decompose problems, abstract details, and build reusable modules.

Algorithm

• How a computer “thinks”: a finite series of abstract steps to achieve a goal.

Program

• A concrete implementation of an algorithm in a programming language the machine can execute.