Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) · lesson 25 of 35 · 25 min
What Is Pseudocode?
Pseudocode is a structured, informal way of describing an algorithm using plain English mixed with programming-like constructs. It is not tied to any specific language — it communicates logic clearly without worrying about syntax. Cambridge IGCSE uses a specific pseudocode style in exams.
Cambridge Pseudocode Conventions
Flowchart Symbols
Worked Example
Write pseudocode to find the largest of three numbers A, B, C
INPUT A, B, C
largest ← A
IF B > largest THEN
largest ← B
ENDIF
IF C > largest THEN
largest ← C
ENDIF
OUTPUT largest
In Cambridge pseudocode, which symbol is used for assignment?
- =
- :=
- ←
- ==
Answer: ←
Cambridge uses ← for assignment (e.g. x ← 5).
Which flowchart symbol represents a decision?
- Rectangle
- Oval
- Diamond
- Parallelogram
Answer: Diamond
A diamond shape represents a decision/branch point.
A REPEAT…UNTIL loop differs from WHILE…DO in that it:
- Never executes the body
- Always executes the body at least once
- Counts iterations automatically
- Only works with integers
- Answer: 1
REPEAT…UNTIL checks the condition after executing the body, so it always runs at least once.
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