Identifying Errors in Algorithms

The video tutorial explains how to identify and correct syntax and logic errors in algorithms. It uses a camping trip cost calculation algorithm as an example, highlighting common mistakes and demonstrating how to test and fix them. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of understanding the algorithm's purpose and using test data to identify errors.

What are the two types of errors you should look for in an algorithm?

• Compilation and syntax errors

• Logic and runtime errors

• Syntax and logic errors

• Syntax and runtime errors

What is a syntax error in the context of programming?

• An error in the output of the code

• An error in the input of the code

• An error in the grammar of the code

• An error in the logic of the code

In the sample algorithm, what was the syntax error identified?

• Mismatched parentheses

• Missing semicolon

• Incorrect variable name

• Unclosed string with speech marks

What should the cost be for three people according to the algorithm's logic?

• £30

• £20

• £10

• £40

What was the logic error when calculating the cost for three people?

• Cost was not multiplied by the number of people

• Cost was multiplied by the wrong factor

• Cost was divided instead of multiplied

• Cost was added instead of multiplied

What should the cost be for six people after applying the 20% increase?

• £78

• £60

• £66

• £72

What was the logic error when calculating the cost for more than five people?

• The condition checked for more than ten people

• The condition was missing entirely

• The condition checked for less than five people

• The condition checked for exactly five people

What percentage increase was incorrectly applied in the algorithm?

• 15%

• 25%

• 10%

• 20%

What is a key strategy for identifying logic errors in algorithms?

• Using random data sets

• Using known test data

• Using only one test case

• Ignoring test data

What is the benefit of running tests with known data on algorithms?

• It helps in identifying syntax errors

• It helps in reducing code size

• It helps in identifying logic errors

• It helps in optimizing the code