Problem-Solving Through Programming In C
The development and industrialization of the modern world are accelerating. The technological advancements combined with the increased market competitiveness necessitate the modern generation to be better problem solvers.
Why is it important to learn problem-solving through programming?
The simple answer- we all make decisions every day. Problem-solving abilities via programming are one of the most in-demand skills in present times. So the time, for you to improve them is now.
In this article, we will be tackling problem-solving through C programming. For embedded devices, C is the most extensively used language. C is a structured programming language with a large number of built-in functions and operators that can be used to create complicated programs. It’s crucial to be able to solve problems in C. Don’t get dismayed if you lack these abilities. We’ll get you up and running in no time….
What is a program and what does programming means?
A program is a set of instructions arranged in a sequence to guide a computer to find a solution for the given problem. The process of writing a program (converting algorithm or flowcharts) to a specific set of instructions is called programming. A computer language is used to write a set of instructions (Computer Program).
What is the most important aspect of problem-solving?
Programmers must first understand how a human solves a problem, then recognize to translate this “algorithm” (a set of instructions for guiding a computer to generate a solution) into something a computer can perform, and lastly “code” the program (a computer is dumb at its core; it’s you who makes it smart).
A ‘C’ program is composed of preprocessor commands, a global declaration section, and one or more functions (a function is a set of instructions used to perform a specific task).
Quick Tip: The most important C header file is: #include<stdio.h>
In general, a C program comprises of,
- Declaration of Variables
- User-defined input/output (eg printf)
- Decision making (if, else if, if-else)
- Loops for multiple Iteration (for, while…, do…while)
- Functions (can be called as many times as the user wishes) and Strings
- Arrays (elements with a similar data type, stored at contiguous memory locations)
- Pointers(stores memory address)
One of the most significant steps in the coding process is to develop a logic for the given programming question. We recommend that you think about the question before tackling it head-on. Try developing its algorithm and strive to come up with multiple solutions (code), for a given problem. Working back and forth with the code and understanding its logic will take you far in this endeavour.
Quick tip- Try drawing flowcharts and look for the output, this will save you a lot of time.
Fortunately, C includes keywords, operators, switch, looping elements, and other useful features to get you going. Some simple steps to follow are,
Define/Establish the problem:
Before attempting to solve a specific problem, It is vital to first comprehend it. To acquire a handle on the problem, read it twice. In most cases, a clear and succinct problem statement is supplied. Input and output should be specified in the problem definition. A thorough understanding of the program is essential. The provided technical challenges can be solved analytically. Most difficulties can be resolved with a basic understanding of math. In the majority of cases, complete knowledge of the topic is offered together with the underlying mathematical notion. Writing a pseudo-code at this point is helpful
Formulate simple algorithms for arithmetic and logical problems
Developing an algorithm is the most important part of a successful code. A well-defined algorithm will help you structuralize the C code making it easier to find errors. Algorithms are frequently regarded as the foundation of a programming code. They are preferred in job interviews to access a candidate’s potential in coding skills. An algorithm is the core structure of your C program.
Let’s solve a simple C Programming problem together,
Find the area and the circumference of a circle.
Try developing an algorithm for this program,
- Step 1: Start
- Step 2: Read r
- Step 3: Calculate
A=3.14*r*r
C=2*3.14*r - Step 4: Print A, C
- Step 5: Stop
Convert Algorithms into Programs (in C language)
C, C++, MFC
Problem-Solving Through Programming In C
Sonali Desai Sonali Desai Updated date Feb 08, 2022
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The development and industrialization of the modern world are accelerating. The technological advancements combined with the increased market competitiveness necessitate the modern generation to be better problem solvers.
Why is it important to learn problem-solving through programming?
The simple answer- we all make decisions every day. Problem-solving abilities via programming are one of the most in-demand skills in present times. So the time, for you to improve them is now.
In this article, we will be tackling problem-solving through C programming. For embedded devices, C is the most extensively used language. C is a structured programming language with a large number of built-in functions and operators that can be used to create complicated programs. It’s crucial to be able to solve problems in C. Don’t get dismayed if you lack these abilities. We’ll get you up and running in no time….
What is a program and what does programming means?
A program is a set of instructions arranged in a sequence to guide a computer to find a solution for the given problem. The process of writing a program (converting algorithm or flowcharts) to a specific set of instructions is called programming. A computer language is used to write a set of instructions (Computer Program).
What is the most important aspect of problem-solving?
Programmers must first understand how a human solves a problem, then recognize to translate this “algorithm” (a set of instructions for guiding a computer to generate a solution) into something a computer can perform, and lastly “code” the program (a computer is dumb at its core; it’s you who makes it smart).
A ‘C’ program is composed of preprocessor commands, a global declaration section, and one or more functions (a function is a set of instructions used to perform a specific task).
Quick Tip: The most important C header file is: #include<stdio.h>
In general, a C program comprises of,
Declaration of Variables
User-defined input/output (eg printf)
Decision making (if, else if, if-else)
Loops for multiple Iteration (for, while…, do…while)
Functions (can be called as many times as the user wishes) and Strings
Arrays (elements with a similar data type, stored at contiguous memory locations)
Pointers(stores memory address)
One of the most significant steps in the coding process is to develop a logic for the given programming question. We recommend that you think about the question before tackling it head-on. Try developing its algorithm and strive to come up with multiple solutions (code), for a given problem. Working back and forth with the code and understanding its logic will take you far in this endeavor.
Quick tip- Try drawing flowcharts and look for the output, this will save you a lot of time.
Fortunately, C includes keywords, operators, switch, looping elements, and other useful features to get you going. Some simple steps to follow are,
Define/Establish the problem
Before attempting to solve a specific problem, It is vital to first comprehend it. To acquire a handle on the problem, read it twice. In most cases, a clear and succinct problem statement is supplied. Input and output should be specified in the problem definition. A thorough understanding of the program is essential. The provided technical challenges can be solved analytically. Most difficulties can be resolved with a basic understanding of math. In the majority of cases, complete knowledge of the topic is offered together with the underlying mathematical notion. Writing a pseudo-code at this point is helpful
Formulate simple algorithms for arithmetic and logical problems
Developing an algorithm is the most important part of a successful code. A well-defined algorithm will help you structuralize the C code making it easier to find errors. Algorithms are frequently regarded as the foundation of a programming code. They are preferred in job interviews to access a candidate’s potential in coding skills. An algorithm is the core structure of your C program.
Let’s solve a simple C Programming problem together,
Find the area and the circumference of a circle.
Try developing an algorithm for this program,
Step 1: Start
Step 2: Read r
Step 3: Calculate
A=3.14*r*r
C=2*3.14*r
Step 4: Print A, C
Step 5: Stop
Convert Algorithms into Programs (in C language)
Now, that you have your algorithm, you should start translating it into a program. Try to keep it simple as possible, and be careful with brackets and semicolons (you’re not working with Python), they will bring your program crashing down. Any text editor (such as Onlinegdb, Programiz, Jdoodle, Interviewbit and others) can be used to write C program source code. Here, we have used InterviewBit’s online compiler to write code, make sure to sign in to save your work for future use. Try inserting comments ( beginning with ‘/*’ and ending with ‘/*’). Although comments are not required, it is a good practice to provide them for readability and comprehension purposes. Remember to start your program with ‘ #include<stdio.h>’, failing to include the header file will result in, the inexecution of program.
Implement conditional branching and iteration
This is the fun part. It may be necessary to iterate a few times while simplifying and optimizing code, identifying ways to further simplify and optimize code. Using loops in C, you can run a series of instructions repeatedly ( for, while…, do…while loops used for multiple iterations). They are efficient and time-saving. Conditions can be generated using: (if-else, else if, if), or by using ternary operators. A switch can be used to create a variety of menu-driven programs. Try playing around with loops to develop a better understanding of them.
Although blank spaces are allowed between an operand and an operator, no space is permitted between the components of an operator (like > = is not allowed, it should be >=). Therefore, writing x==y is correct but writing x= =y is not acceptable in C language. Take out a piece of paper and work through the problem manually for simplicity. Consider at least three data sets that you can use. Also, consider the possibilities on the outside. It’s easy to overlook the steps when you’re initially starting out. Writing pseudo-codes in such cases can be of great help. Refer back to the problem to make sure you are correct.
Using Functions and Recursion
Using the divide and conquer method, decompose a problem into functions and synthesize a complete program. In C, there are four different ways to declare and call a function.
- Function with an argument with return value.
- Function with an argument without return value.
- Function without argument without return value.
- Function without argument with return value.
Ask yourself, What is the purpose of this function? What am I returning at the end of this function?
Recursion (a function that calls itself) improves the speed of a program’s execution while also making it compact and easier to understand. They are good for programs that have a complex iterative approach ( eg, find the largest number among n numbers using a function ). Nested loops can be simply avoided while using them.
Quick tip- Break apart larger C projects into several modules.
Using arrays, pointers, and structures, to create algorithms and program
Have you ever wanted to know how to program a matrix? Well, 2-D arrays are here to help you out. Using arrays and pointers, you can save substantial time. They can be used to store a variety of data type such as int, float, long int, double, char, etc of any particular type. Accessing the address of a variable can be done by using pointers. Allocation and de-allocation become simple.
(To get a better hold on topic, apply to solve matrix addition and multiplication, searching and sorting problems using C language )
Keep in mind, C does not permit arrays of bit fields, pointers to bit fields, and function returning bit fields. C permits ordinary member variables along with fields as structure members. In all implementations, the default integer type for a bit field is unsigned.
Test and effectuate the programs
Compiling and running a C program is usually straightforward; the tricky part comes next. Your code may have some errors, choose one error at a time, correct its syntax and look for logical fallacies. Some common errors are: Initialization errors, stack over-flow, compile-time error, Boolean expression flaws, type conversion ( while type conversion is done implicitly, typecasting has to be done explicitly by the programmer. Typecasting is done when the value of higher data type has to be converted to lower data type.), and several more. When the code is free of errors, it will get executed.
Quick tip- Remember, C is a case sensitive language. Typing scanf function as Scanf will generate an error.
Debugging your program is essential for its execution. Remember syntax will come naturally over time. The execution of the above program is:
How in school, most of us used to dread solving math questions. Often our approach to questions was abstract and our methods were incorrect. Programming in some ways is similar to math; it requires practice and an open approach to problem-solving. Solving a bunch of questions, developing your own algorithm, creating different codes for the same problem, and understanding the basics of C Programming Language will make you a pro in no time.
Keep pushing yourself. You improve as a developer with each problem you solve. Celebrate each success, however small and be sure to remember how far you’ve come.
By engaging with this subject, you will learn to think, solve problems and make informed decisions.
