The inputs, processes, and outputs for a problem

Identify the inputs, processes, and outputs for a problem

2.1.2 Designing, creating and refining algorithms

Designing, creating and refining algorithms — Note 1 of 7

What you need to know

Every algorithm can be broken down into three stages: inputs (the data the algorithm receives), processes (how the data is transformed or calculated), and outputs (the result produced). Identifying these three stages is the first step in designing any algorithm and helps you understand what data is needed, what needs to happen to it, and what the expected result should be.

What to know

Inputs are the data an algorithm receives, e.g. from user input, a file, or a sensor.
Processes are the operations performed on the data, such as calculations, comparisons, or sorting.
Outputs are the results produced by the algorithm, often displayed to the user or saved to a file.
Identifying inputs, processes, and outputs helps plan the structure of an algorithm before writing code.
A single algorithm may have multiple inputs, several processing steps, and one or more outputs.

Exam technique

Tip:Be precise when identifying inputs. Say 'name/keyword for video to search for', NOT just 'video'. Examiners expect the raw data, not vague descriptions.
Tip:When identifying additional inputs for a changed algorithm, think about what NEW data is needed from the user.

Code examples

Input-Process-Output example

python

# Input
length = float(input("Enter the length: "))
width = float(input("Enter the width: "))

# Process
area = length * width

# Output
print("The area is:", area)

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