Week 4 Overview

So far we've covered 5 of the 6 essential constructs: input, processing, output, sequence, and selection. This module will cover the final construct, repetition. With repetition added to your toolbox you will be able to express any computational algorithm. Repetition constructs are needed because many algorithms involve performing an action not just once, but repeatedly while some condition holds. Python provides two statements that implement repetition constructs: while and for.

The core skill to develop in this module is to be able to use the while and for statements in your programs.

A secondary topic will be the process of writing a program by moving from an English description, to a pseudocode description, and on to a Python program.

Finally, be sure not to miss the topics in the section Pythonic Details because you are expected to apply these where appropriate in your assignment.