Code in Place 2021

What is a code block? What does it look like?

A set of commands within a function. Code Blocks are often identified by an indentation which forms the block.

What is control flow and what are its components?

Control flow is the process of designing the order or sequence of steps in a program. We can control the flow of steps in a program by employing various function types such as: - iterative functions (while loops, for loops) - conditional functions (if and if/even)

How does variable assignment work?

First, choose a variable and set it equal to a value or expression by using the equal sign. Then Python will evaluate the right-hand side of the expression and then associate that value with the variable on the left-hand side of the equals sign.

What does "type" mean in Python? What are examples of the various "types" in Python? How do we convert one type to another type?

In Python, "type" is shortened and refers to "data type." Different kinds of data have different qualities that designate how they should be handled and what kinds of operators can be applied to them. Python types are used to describe the kind of qualities these data have. Different types in Python include: - String: Text - Integer: Whole number - Float: Decimal You can convert to a string using the str() function. You can convert to an integer using the int() function. You can convert to a float using the float() function.

What is a "variable" in Python and how do we create them?

In Python, a variable is a tag used to reference a value. It can also be thought of as a container used to store a value. We create variables in Python by assigning a value to them using the equal (=) sign.

What does IDE stand for and what is it?

Integrated Development Environment An IDE is special software used as a space to write computer programs and run the program.

Can variables be used outside of the function in which they are created?

No. Variables are only visible inside the function in which they are created (called "scope of variable). - If you create a variable in main(), it is only visible in main().

What is the "print" function? What is the syntax for writing text (or string) in Python?

The print function returns text to the terminal. You can write text in Python by enclosing it in double quotes or single quotes.

What is decomposition and why is it important?

The process of breaking down a problem into smaller components or subproblems. It's important in helping the programmer understand the program on a human thought level. Sometimes people write programs in pseudocode to help with the thinking process.

What is a comment and how do we write them in an IDE?

Using descriptive text to explain portions of code. In Python, we can designate a piece of text as a comment by beginning with a hashtag/pound sign for a single-line comment. To create a multi-line comment, we first open the comment with three double-quotes and close the comment with three double-quotes.

What are rules for creating variable names?

Variable names must: - Start with a letter or an underscore ( _ ) - Contain only letters, digits, or underscores - Cannot be a reserved keyword in Python Variable names are case sensitive - "Hello" is not the same as "hello" Variable names should: - BE DESCRIPTIVE OF THE VALUE THEY REFER TO - BE IN SNAKE_CASE

What is a function?

Way to specify a sequence of commands

How do we make interactive programs in Python?

We can make an interactive program using the input() function. The input function will print a prompt to which the user will respond by entering text.

Can you set the value of a variable using mathematical expressions?

Yes. For example: x = 5+7 so x = 12

Can you change the value of a variable?

Yes. You can change the value of a variable with new assignment (by setting the old variable equal to a new value) on a subsequent line of the program.