Basics of algorithmics

Presentation & objectives

The objective of this session is to introduce the basic concepts of algorithmics. It is a mandatory first step to students discovering these fields, and also a useful reminder for the others to ensure we all use the same terminology. In particular, we will study fundamental algorithmic statements (loops, conditionals), and also the concepts of constants and variables.

At the end of the session, you should know how to write a simple algorithm to solve a given problem, using all the elements listed above.

Before the class

Technical requirements

To be able to start working on the activity, you should meet the following requirements:

• Please bring your own computer.
• Make sure to have a functional network connection.
• Make sure you complete the practical activity of environment session 2.

During the class

Prior knowledge acquisition

At the beginning of the class, we will study the following article:

• What is an algorithm?.
• Variables & constants.
• Algorithmic statements.

You can verify your understanding of these articles here:

• Follow this link for a self-assessment quiz.

Practical activity

The rest of the class is dedicated to a practical activity. When ready, click on the link below to start:

• Follow this link for the practical activity.

After the class

Complete the current session

Before the next session, you should:

• Review the contents of the articles above.
• Complete the non-optional parts of the practical activity.

Prepare the next session

Also, you should:

• Check the “Before the class” section of the next session, and make sure you do everything required to prepare it.