C.3. Pseudocode

Pseudocode is an informal language that helps you develop algorithms without having to worry about the strict details of Java language syntax. The pseudocode we present is particularly useful for developing algorithms that will be converted to structured portions of Java programs. Pseudocode is similar to everyday English—it’s convenient and user friendly, but it’s not an actual computer programming language.

Pseudocode does not execute on computers. Rather, it helps you “think out” a program before attempting to write it in a programming language, such as Java. Pseudocode normally describes only statements representing the actions that occur after you convert a program from pseudocode to Java and the program is run on a computer. Such actions might include input, output or calculations.