BSc Computer Science Year 1 Notes – Introduction to Computers & Programming Fundamentals

 Introduction to Computers & Programming Fundamentals

What is Programming?

Programming is the process of writing instructions that a computer can understand and execute. These instructions are written in a programming language and help solve problems, automate tasks, or build software.

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🧾 1. Introduction to Programming

Programming involves creating a set of instructions to tell a computer how to perform a task. A programmer writes code in a programming language like Python, C++, or Java. The code is then translated (compiled or interpreted) into machine language.

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🗂️ 2. Variables and Data Types

• Variables store data that the program can use or change.

• Data Types define the kind of data stored:

  • Integer: Whole numbers (e.g., 1, 25)

  • Float: Decimal numbers (e.g., 3.14)

  • String: Text (e.g., "Hello")

  • Boolean: True or False values

Example in Python:

name = "Alice"
age = 20

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🔀 3. Conditional Statements

Used to make decisions in a program. Common statements include:

• if: Executes code if a condition is true.

• else: Executes code if the condition is false.

• elif: Used for multiple conditions.

Example:

if age >= 18:
    print("You are an adult")
else:
    print("You are a minor")

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🔁 4. Loops

Loops let you repeat code:

• For Loop: Repeats a set number of times.

• While Loop: Repeats as long as a condition is true.

Example:

for i in range(5):
    print("Hello")

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🧩 5. Functions

Functions are reusable blocks of code that perform a specific task.

Example:

def greet(name):
    print("Hello, " + name)

greet("Alice")

Benefits:

• Code reusability

• Easier to debug

• Logical structure

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💬 6. Basic Input and Output

Input allows users to provide data. Output displays the result.

Example:

name = input("Enter your name: ")
print("Welcome, " + name)

This lets users interact with the program dynamically.