MANAGING COMPUTER FILES

CONCEPT OF COMPUTER FILES

OUTLINE

1. Definition of terms:
o Computer File
o Record
o Field
o Data Item
2. Types of Data Items.
3. File Structure Organization.
4. Types of File Organization.
5. Methods of Accessing Files.
6. File Classification.
7. Criteria for Classifying Files.

Content:

Definition of Terms:

1. Computer File:
o A collection of related data or information stored in a computer system. Files are
typically stored on various media such as hard drives, CDs, flash drives, or cloud
storage. Examples include text files used for documents, multimedia files for
images and videos, and executable files for software programs.
2. Record:
o A collection of related data items that represent a single entity, like a row in a
table. For instance, in a school database, a record may contain details such as the
student’s name, age, and grades.
3. Field:
o A single data element in a record. Fields define the type of data stored, such as
"Name," "Age," or "Class." For example, in the record for a student, "Name"
could have a value of "John Doe."
4. Data Item:
o The smallest unit of data in a record, representing a specific value. For example,
"John" as the value in the "Name" field, or "16" as the value in the "Age" field.

Types of Data Items:

1. Numeric: Numbers used for calculations or quantitative analysis (e.g., 123, 45.6). These
are commonly used in financial and statistical computations.
2. Alphabetic: Letters or characters used for textual information (e.g., names or addresses).
 3. Alphanumeric: A combination of letters, numbers, and symbols (e.g., AB123).
Alphanumeric data is widely used for identifiers, such as product codes or registration
numbers.

File Structure Organization:

1. Data Item ➔ Record ➔ File ➔ Database:

o Data Item: The smallest unit of meaningful information.
o Record: A collection of data items that represent one complete entry.
o File: A set of related records, such as a file containing all student records in a
school.
o Database: A structured collection of multiple files, organized for easy access and
management. For example, a university database might contain files for students,
courses, and staff.

Types of File Organization:

1. Serial: Data is stored in the order it is received, making it suitable for small datasets
where sorting is unnecessary. For example, event logs.
2. Sequential: Data is stored in a specific order, typically sorted by a key field like "Student
ID." This method is common in payroll systems.
3. Index: An index is created to allow fast access to records by a key field. For example, a
library catalog.
4. Random: Records are stored in random order and accessed directly using a unique key,
such as a bank account number.

Methods of Accessing Files:

1. Serial Access: Records are read sequentially from start to finish, often used in magnetic
tape storage.
2. Sequential Access: Records are read in a predetermined, sorted order, ideal for batch
processing.
3. Random Access: Records are accessed directly using a unique identifier, enabling quick
retrieval in systems like ATMs.

File Classification:

1. Master File: Contains permanent data that rarely changes, such as employee records in
an organization.
2. Transaction File: Contains temporary data used for updating master files, like daily
sales transactions.
3. Reference File: Stores static data used for lookup purposes, such as postal codes or tax
rates.
Criteria for Classifying Files:

1. Nature of Content: Program files (containing executable instructions) vs. data files
(storing information like text or numbers).
2. Organization Method: Serial, sequential, index, or random organization.
3. Storage Medium: Hard drives, SSDs, cloud storage, or removable media such as flash
drives or DVDs.

Evaluation Questions:

1. Define a computer file.

2. Explain the relationship between a record and a field.
3. List and describe three types of data items.
4. Differentiate between serial and sequential file organization.
5. What is the function of a master file?

MANAGING COMPUTER FILES

HANDLING COMPUTER FILES

OUTLINE

1. Basic Operations on Computer Files.

2. Effects of File Insecurity.
3. Causes of Data Loss.
4. Methods of File Security.
5. Differences Between Computer Files and Manual Files.
6. Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer Files.
7. File Processing Using BASIC Programming.

Basic Operations on Computer Files:

1. Create:
o Generating a new file involves defining its structure and purpose. For instance,
when creating a document in MS Word, you define the type of file (.docx) and
can set templates for formatting.
2. Delete:
o This operation permanently removes a file from the system’s storage. In some
cases, deleted files may be recoverable from a recycle bin or backup system.
3. Retrieve:
 o Retrieving a file means accessing it for use. For example, opening a spreadsheet
to analyze monthly sales data.
4. Insert:
o Inserting data involves adding new information to an existing file, such as
appending rows to a database table.
5. Copy:
o Creating a duplicate file ensures the original remains intact. For example, copying
a report to share while keeping the original unchanged.
6. View:
oViewing allows users to examine the content of a file in read-only mode, such as
reading a PDF document.
7. Update:
o Updating involves modifying the content of an existing file, such as revising a
project plan in a word processor.
8. Open/Close:
o Files must be properly opened for access and closed after use to prevent data
corruption. For instance, opening a database in MS Access to update records.

Effects of File Insecurity:

1. Data Loss:
o Example: Losing employee records due to hardware failure without a backup.
2. Data Corruption:
o Example: A spreadsheet becomes unreadable due to malware infection.
3. Unreliable Data:
o Example: Errors introduced by unauthorized edits lead to incorrect financial
reports.

Causes of Data Loss:

1. Overwriting:
o Example: Saving over an existing important document accidentally.
2. Inadvertent Deletion:
o Example: Deleting a file during a cleanup process without verifying its
importance.

Methods of File Security:

1. Use of Backup:
o Regular backups ensure data recovery in case of loss. Example: Using cloud
storage for daily backups.
2. Use of Antivirus Software:
o Example: Installing antivirus to detect and remove malware that may corrupt files.
3. Password Protection:
o Example: Encrypting sensitive files with strong passwords.
4. Proper Labeling of Storage Devices:
 o Example: Labeling drives clearly to avoid overwriting or accidental use.

Differences Between Computer Files and Manual Files:

Feature Computer Files Manual Files

Storage Digital storage (e.g., hard drives) Physical storage (e.g., cabinets)
Access Speed Fast and efficient Slower and manual
Security Password-protected Prone to unauthorized access

Advantages of Computer Files:

1. More secure compared to physical files due to encryption and access controls.
2. Easy and fast to access and retrieve data with minimal effort.

Disadvantages of Computer Files:

1. Expensive to set up due to hardware, software, and maintenance costs.

2. Dependent on regular electricity supply or alternative power sources.

File Processing Using BASIC Programming: Below is an example of a BASIC program to

create, write, and display the contents of a file:

10 OPEN "DATAFILE.TXT" FOR OUTPUT AS #1

20 PRINT #1, "Name, Age, Grade"
30 PRINT #1, "John Doe, 16, A"
40 PRINT #1, "Jane Smith, 15, B"
50 CLOSE #1
60 OPEN "DATAFILE.TXT" FOR INPUT AS #1
70 WHILE NOT EOF(1)
80 INPUT #1, LINE$
90 PRINT LINE$
100 WEND
110 CLOSE #1
END

 Explanation:
o Lines 10-50: Create a file named DATAFILE.TXT and write data to it.
o Lines 60-110: Open the file for reading and display its content line by line.

Evaluation Questions:

1. List three basic operations performed on computer files.

2. State two effects of file insecurity.
3. Highlight two differences between computer files and manual files.
4. Explain one method of securing computer files.
5. What is a disadvantage of using computer files?
6. Write a BASIC program to display "Hello, World!" in a file
 WORD PROCESSING

OUTLINE

1. Definition and examples of word processing and word processors.

2. Features of word processing programs.
3. Application areas of word processing programs.
4. Features of MS Word.
5. Steps in activating and exiting MS Word.
6. Basic operations in MS Word.
7. Further operations in MS Word.

Definition of Word Processing:

Word processing refers to the process of creating, editing, formatting, and printing text
documents using a word processing program. It allows users to produce professional-quality
documents such as letters, memos, and reports efficiently and effectively.

Examples of Word Processors:

1. Microsoft Word (MS Word): A widely used word processor that provides advanced
features for text editing and formatting.
2. WordPerfect: Known for its strong formatting and document management capabilities,
particularly in legal documentation.
3. WordStar: One of the earliest word processing programs, popular in the early days of
personal computing.

Features of Word Processing Programs:

1. Text Entry and Editing: Allows users to type, delete, and rearrange text easily.
2. Formatting Tools: Provides options to adjust font styles, sizes, and colors to enhance
document readability and aesthetics.
3. Spell Check and Grammar Correction: Identifies and suggests corrections for spelling
and grammar errors.
4. Templates: Offers pre-designed formats for creating documents like resumes, letters, and
reports.
5. Graphics Insertion: Enables adding images, tables, and charts to documents.

Application Areas of Word Processing Programs:

1. Office: Used to draft and format business documents such as memos, invoices, and
meeting agendas.
2. Publishing: Helps in creating and formatting newsletters, brochures, and books.
3. Education: Essential for preparing assignments, reports, and study materials.
4. Journalism: Facilitates drafting, editing, and finalizing articles and news reports.
Features of Microsoft Word:

1. User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive menus, ribbons, and toolbars provide easy access to
features.
2. Formatting Tools: Includes options for bold, italic, underline, and text alignment (left,
center, right, justify).
3. Templates: Offers ready-to-use document templates for faster document creation.
4. Tables and Charts: Tools to insert and customize tables for data organization and charts
for data visualization.
5. Editing Tools: Features like word count, find and replace, and reviewing tools for
enhanced productivity.

Steps in Activating and Exiting MS Word:

1. Activating MS Word:
o Click on the Start menu.
o Navigate to "All Programs."
o Select "Microsoft Office" and click on "Microsoft Word."
2. Exiting MS Word:
o Click the "File" tab and choose "Exit."
o Alternatively, click the "X" button in the upper-right corner of the window.

Overview of MS Word Environment:

Microsoft Word (MS Word) is a powerful word-processing software that allows users to create,
edit, and format text-based documents efficiently. Understanding its environment ensures ease of
use.

 Ribbon: The top part of the screen containing tabs and tools.
 Quick Access Toolbar: Provides shortcuts for frequently used commands such as Save,
Undo, and Redo.
 Document Area: The workspace where the content is written.
 Status Bar: Shows document information, including the page count and word count.

Steps to Activate MS Word:

1. Click on the Start menu (bottom-left corner of your screen).

2. Navigate to "All Programs."
3. Locate "Microsoft Office" and click on "Microsoft Word."
4. The MS Word interface will open, ready for use.

Basic Operations in MS Word:

1. Creating a New Document:

o Steps:
1. Open MS Word.
 2. Click on "File" and choose "New."
3. Select "Blank Document" or a template from available options.
4. A new document will appear in the workspace.
o Purpose: To start a fresh document for writing.
2. Editing Text:
o Definition: The process of modifying text within the document, including adding,
deleting, or rearranging words and sentences.
o Steps:
1. Highlight the text you wish to edit by clicking and dragging over it.
2. Type to replace the highlighted text or use commands such as Delete,
Backspace, or Insert.
3. Make formatting changes such as bold (Ctrl+B), italic (Ctrl+I), or
underline (Ctrl+U).
3. Saving a Document:
o Definition: Preserving the current work to avoid loss and enable future access.
o Steps:
1. Click "File" and select "Save" or "Save As."
2. Choose a location to store the file (e.g., Documents folder).
3. Provide a filename and click "Save."
o Shortcut: Press Ctrl+S.
4. Retrieving a Document:
o Definition: Opening a previously saved document for further editing or review.
o Steps:
1. Open MS Word and click "File."
2. Choose "Open" from the menu.
3. Browse to the saved file’s location and double-click it.
5. Printing a Document:
o Definition: Generating a physical copy of a document using a connected printer.
o Steps:
1. Click "File" and choose "Print."
2. Adjust printer settings (e.g., number of copies, paper size).
3. Click the "Print" button.
6. Closing a Document:
o Steps:
1. Save the document if changes were made.
2. Click the "X" icon at the top-right corner of the screen or choose "File" >
"Close."
o Tip: Ensure all changes are saved before closing to avoid data loss.

Evaluation

1. Explain the steps for creating a new document in MS Word.

2. What are the steps to save a document? Provide the shortcut key.
3. Define editing and describe one way to edit text in MS Word.
 4. How would you print a document in MS Word?
5. Describe the purpose of the status bar in the MS Word interface.

Further Operations in MS Word

1. Move: To shift text from one part of the document to another:

o Steps:
 Highlight the text to move.
 Use the Cut option from the toolbar or press Ctrl+X.
 Place the cursor where you want the text and use the Paste option or press
Ctrl+V.
 Alternatively, use drag-and-drop to move the text directly.
2. Copy: To duplicate text or an object:
o Steps:
 Highlight the desired text or content.
 Use the Copy option from the toolbar or press Ctrl+C.
 Place the cursor where you want the copy and click Paste or press Ctrl+V.
3. Cut: Removes the selected text or content from its location while keeping it in the
clipboard for pasting elsewhere. (Shortcut: Ctrl+X).
4. Font Customization:
o Font Types: Choose between serif and sans-serif fonts (e.g., Times New Roman
or Arial).
o Font Sizes: Change the size to suit your text by highlighting and selecting a size
from the Font menu.
o Font Colors: Modify text color using the color palette in the toolbar.
5. Text Formatting:
o Alignment:
 Left Align (Ctrl+L): Aligns text to the left margin.
 Center Align (Ctrl+E): Centers the text.
 Right Align (Ctrl+R): Aligns text to the right margin.
 Justify (Ctrl+J): Aligns text evenly across both margins.
o Line Spacing: Adjust the space between lines using the Paragraph group in the
toolbar.
o Indentation: Add space at the beginning of paragraphs to differentiate sections.
6. Search and Replace:
o Steps for Searching:
 Press Ctrl+F or use the "Find" option under the Home tab.
 Type the word/phrase to locate in the document.
o Steps for Replacing:
 Open the "Replace" dialog box using Ctrl+H.
 Enter the word to replace and the new word to substitute it.
 Use "Replace All" for bulk changes.
7. Spell Checking and Grammar:
o Steps:
 Select "Spelling and Grammar" under the Review tab.
  Word identifies errors and offers corrections.
 Review suggestions and accept the appropriate changes.
8. File Merging:
o Combines two or more documents into one.
o Steps:
 Open the primary document.
 Select "Insert" > "Text from File" under the Object menu.
 Browse and select the document to merge.

Evaluation 2

1. Explain the steps to move and copy text in MS Word.

2. Describe how to adjust line spacing and text alignment.
3. What is the shortcut for searching for text in a document?
4. How do you apply spell checking to a document?
5. State the procedure for merging two Word documents.

Evaluation 3

1. Define word processing with two examples of word processors.

2. List and explain three features of MS Word.
3. State two application areas of word processing programs and their importance.
4. Describe the steps involved in activating MS Word.
5. What are the basic and further operations available in MS Word? Provide examples for
each.

SPREADSHEET

OUTLINE

1. Definition and examples of spreadsheet programs.

2. Features of a spreadsheet program.
3. Application areas of spreadsheet programs.
4. Features of MS Excel environment.
5. Basic terms in MS Excel (worksheet, workbook, cells, cell ranges).
6. Data types in MS Excel.
7. Basic operations in MS Excel.
Definition of Spreadsheet:

A spreadsheet is an application software designed for organizing, analyzing, and storing data in
tabular form. It allows users to perform calculations and create data visualizations such as charts.

Examples of Spreadsheet Programs:

1. Microsoft Excel (MS Excel): A widely used spreadsheet application by Microsoft.

2. VisiCalc: One of the earliest spreadsheet programs.
3. SuperCalc: A legacy spreadsheet application.
4. Google Sheets: An online spreadsheet tool with real-time collaboration.

Features of a Spreadsheet Program:

1. Cell-based Structure: Data is organized in rows and columns.

2. Formulas and Functions: Automates calculations and analyses (e.g., SUM, AVERAGE).
3. Data Visualization Tools: Provides charts and graphs to represent data visually.
4. Data Sorting and Filtering: Simplifies large dataset management.
5. Conditional Formatting: Highlights data based on specific criteria.

Application Areas of Spreadsheet Programs:

1. Accounting: Maintaining financial records and preparing budgets.

2. Statistical Analysis: Conducting and analyzing statistical calculations.
3. Education: Managing student records, results, and attendance.
4. Project Management: Scheduling tasks and tracking project progress.

Features of MS Excel Environment:

1. Workbook: A collection of worksheets within a single file.

2. Worksheet: The individual page or grid in the workbook.
3. Cells and Cell Ranges:
o Cell: The intersection of a row and column, used for data entry.
o Cell Range: A group of selected cells, e.g., A1:B10.
4. Formula Bar: Displays the content or formula of the active cell.
5. Status Bar: Shows information about the current workbook, such as caps lock or sum.
6. Ribbon and Tabs: Contains commands for various tasks like inserting charts or formatting.

Data Types in MS Excel:

1. Number: Used for numerical data.

2. Label: Descriptive text such as headers.
3. Formula: Mathematical expressions starting with an "=" sign.

Basic Operations in MS Excel:

1. Data Entry:
o Click on a cell and type the desired content.
 2. Saving a Workbook:
o Click "File" > "Save As" to store the file.
3. Retrieving a Workbook:
o Use the "Open" command in the File menu to access saved files.
4. Copying and Moving Data:
o Copy: Highlight the data, press Ctrl+C, and paste with Ctrl+V.
o Move: Highlight, cut with Ctrl+X, and paste in the new location.
5. Formatting Cells:
o Modify font type, size, or background color using the toolbar.
6. Printing Data:
o Use "File" > "Print" to print the workbook or selected sheets.

Evaluation

1. Define a spreadsheet and provide two examples of spreadsheet programs.

2. Explain three features of MS Excel.
3. What are three types of data used in MS Excel?
4. Describe the process of copying and moving data in a worksheet.
5. List and explain three application areas of spreadsheet programs.

ARITHMETIC CALCULATIONS AND ADDITIONAL OPERATIONS IN MS EXCEL

OUTLINE

1. Arithmetic Calculations Using Formulas and Built-in Functions:

o Simple Calculations (SUM, AVERAGE, etc.).
2. Additional Operations in Excel:
o Editing.
o Formatting.
o Printing.
o Drawing Charts (Pie Charts, Histograms, Bar Charts, etc.).

Arithmetic Calculations in Excel

MS Excel simplifies mathematical calculations through formulas and built-in functions:

1. Formulas:
o Formulas in Excel begin with an equal sign =.
 o Users can perform operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
directly in cells.
o Examples:
 =A1+B1: Adds values in cells A1 and B1.
 =C2-D2: Subtracts D2 from C2.
 =E3*F3: Multiplies E3 by F3.
 =G4/H4: Divides G4 by H4.

2. Built-in Functions:
o Excel functions simplify repetitive calculations. Common examples include:
 SUM: Adds multiple values together. Example: =SUM(A1:A5).
 AVERAGE: Calculates the mean of selected values. Example:
=AVERAGE(B1:B10).
 MAX: Finds the highest value. Example: =MAX(C1:C10).
 MIN: Finds the smallest value. Example: =MIN(D1:D10).
 COUNT: Counts the number of cells with numerical entries. Example:
=COUNT(E1:E20).

Additional Operations in MS Excel

1. Editing:
o Definition: Modifying existing content in cells.
o Steps:
 Double-click a cell or press F2 to edit its content.
 Use backspace or delete to remove unwanted data.
 Replace text or numbers by typing over existing content.

2. Formatting:
o Improves the appearance of data.
o Features:
 Font: Change the typeface, size, and color of text.
 Number Formatting: Format cells to display currency, percentage, dates, or
decimals.
 Borders and Shading: Add cell borders and background colors for emphasis.
 Alignment: Align data horizontally or vertically within a cell.
o Steps:
 Highlight the cells to format.
 Use the Home tab’s formatting tools to adjust appearance.

3. Printing:
o Steps:

1. Go to the "File" menu and click on "Print".

2. Choose the desired printer.
3. Adjust page setup (e.g., orientation, scaling, margins).
4. Select "Print Preview" to ensure accuracy before printing.
5. Click the "Print" button to generate physical copies.

4. Drawing Charts:
 o Charts are graphical representations of data for easier interpretation.
o Steps to Create a Chart:
1. Highlight the data range (e.g., A1:B5).
2. Go to the Insert tab and select a chart type (e.g., Pie, Bar, Histogram).
3. Adjust chart elements (e.g., title, legend, axes).
4. Use the Chart Tools to customize colors and styles.
o Common Chart Types:

 Pie Chart: Represents data as slices of a circle.

 Bar Chart: Displays data in horizontal bars.
 Histogram: Shows frequency distributions.

Evaluation

1. Write a formula to add the values in cells A1 to A10.

2. What is the difference between MAX and MIN functions in Excel?
3. Explain how to modify the font and number format of a cell in Excel.
4. Describe the steps to create a pie chart in Excel.
5. State the process of printing a worksheet in Excel.

DEVELOPING PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT CYCLE

OUTLINE

1. Definition of System Development Cycle (SDC).

2. Description of SDC.
3. Stages of System Development Cycle.
4. Description of Each Stage of SDC.
5. Diagram of the SDC.

Content:

Definition of System Development Cycle: The System Development Cycle (SDC) is a

structured process used for developing, implementing, and maintaining information systems. It
ensures that systems are created systematically to meet user requirements and operate efficiently.
Description of System Development Cycle: The SDC provides a step-by-step approach to
system creation, from identifying needs to deploying and maintaining the system. This structured
process helps avoid errors and ensures the system’s effectiveness and reliability.

Stages of System Development Cycle:

1. Preliminary Study:
o Identify the problem or opportunity and determine its scope.
o Example: Assessing the need for a school management system.

2. Feasibility Study:
o Analyze whether the project is viable in terms of cost, time, and technology.
o Example: Evaluating if the school has resources to implement the system.

3. Investigative Study:
o Gather detailed information about the existing system and user requirements.
o Example: Conducting interviews with teachers and staff to understand needs.

4. Analysis:
o Analyze data collected and create a requirements document.
o Example: Listing features like attendance tracking and report generation.

5. Design:
o Create a blueprint of the new system, including diagrams and workflows.
o Example: Designing the user interface for the school system.

6. Implementation:
o Develop and deploy the system using programming languages and tools.
o Example: Writing code and installing the system on school computers.

7. Maintenance:
o Monitor, update, and fix issues in the system post-deployment.
o Example: Resolving bugs and adding new features as needed.

8. Study Review:
o Evaluate the system’s performance and suggest improvements.
o Example: Collecting feedback from users and making adjustments.

Diagram of the System Development Cycle: [Diagram showing a cyclical representation of

SDC stages, with arrows connecting each stage: Preliminary Study ➔ Feasibility Study ➔
Investigative Study ➔ Analysis ➔ Design ➔ Implementation ➔ Maintenance ➔ Study Review.]
Evaluation Questions:

1. Define the System Development Cycle.

2. List and describe three stages of the System Development Cycle.
3. What is the purpose of the feasibility study stage?
4. Explain the importance of maintenance in the SDC.
5. Draw and label a diagram of the System Development Cycle.

PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT CYCLE

OUTLINE

1. Definition of a Program.
2. Characteristics of a Good Program.
3. Precautions in Developing a Program.
4. Steps Involved in Program Development.
5. Description of Each Stage in Program Development.
6. Examples of Interpreted and Compiled Programs.

Definition of a Program: A program is a set of instructions written in a programming language

that directs a computer to perform specific tasks. Programs are developed to solve problems,
automate processes, or improve efficiency.

Characteristics of a Good Program:

1. Accuracy:
o The program must provide correct results consistently.
o Example: A calculator program should always perform accurate arithmetic operations.
 2. Readability:
o The program code should be easy to read and understand by other programmers.
o Example: Using clear variable names like total marks instead of tm.

3. Maintainability:
o The program should be easy to update or modify to accommodate changes.
o Example: A payroll system that can be adjusted for new tax laws.

4. Efficiency:
o The program should execute tasks quickly without consuming excessive resources.
o Example: An app that loads data swiftly without slowing down the device.

5. Generality:
o The program should be applicable to a wide range of inputs and scenarios.
o Example: A sorting algorithm that works with both numbers and text.

6. Clarity:
o The program logic should be straightforward and free of unnecessary complexity.
o Example: Breaking down a process into simple, well-organized steps.

Precautions in Developing a Program:

1. Be Stable, Steady, and Patient:

o Programming requires focus and persistence to debug errors effectively.

2. No Step Skipping:
o Each stage in development must be followed systematically to ensure completeness.

3. Follow the Order of Execution:

o Ensure instructions are logically sequenced to prevent errors.

Steps Involved in Program Development:

1. Problem Definition:
o Clearly identify the problem to be solved.
o Example: Developing a program to calculate student averages.

2. Problem Analysis:
o Break down the problem into smaller, manageable components.
o Example: Identifying input data (marks), processing steps (sum and divide), and output
(average).

3. Flowcharting:
o Create a diagram representing the logical flow of the program.
o Example: Drawing a flowchart to show how data moves from input to output.

4. Desk Checking:
 o Manually simulate the program with sample data to check for errors.
o Example: Testing calculations on paper before coding.

5. Program Coding:
o Write the program using a programming language.
o Example: Writing a Python script to calculate areas.

6. Program Compilation:
o Convert the code into machine language using a compiler.
o Example: Compiling a C++ program to create an executable file.

7. Program Testing/Debugging:
o Execute the program and fix errors (bugs).
o Example: Identifying and correcting incorrect outputs in a game.

8. Program Documentation:
o Prepare documentation to describe the program’s functionality.
o Example: Writing a user manual for a library management system.

Description of Each Stage in Program Development: Each stage is critical and contributes to
the successful creation of a program. Proper documentation and testing at each step ensure that
the program meets user requirements and functions reliably.

Examples of Programs:

1. Interpreted Programs:
o BASIC, Python.
o These programs are executed line by line, making them suitable for debugging.

2. Compiled Programs:
o C++, FORTRAN.
o These programs are converted into machine code before execution, making them faster
but harder to debug.

Evaluation Questions:

1. Define a program and state its importance.

2. List and explain three characteristics of a good program.
3. What precautions should be taken in program development?
4. Highlight the steps involved in program development.
5. Differentiate between interpreted and compiled programs with examples.