Computer programming or programming is the skill of creating a computer program that will execute successfully on a computer.
Starting with a problem that needs to be solved, the programmer first develops an algorithm. The algorithm is the step by step logic for solving the problem. The algorithm considers the necessary input and the desired output and determines how to achieve the goal.
A programmer also considers which type of computer, or platform, that the program is to run on. The platform will influence what programming language will be used and how the user will interface with the program. The programmer may also have to consider special capabilities and limitation of the platform.
If there is a graphical user interface, GUI, the programmer must design the interface. The programmer may work with artists, animators or sound technicians to develop the necessary art work and sounds.
Next, the programmer must write the source code. Source code is usually written, tested and debugged using an IDE, or integrated development environment.
Programmers usually write the program one step at a time, testing and debugging as they go along.
After writing the source code (or a section of code), the programmer sends the program to the compiler to run. The programmer must fix any syntax errors and run the program again.
Finally, when the compiler does not find any errors the programmer must test the program for logical errors. The program may have logical errors even though it compiles and runs. The programmer must thoroughly test the program to guarantee that the results are correct and that the program runs without using unnecessary resources.
Programming