manual

The working reference.

Syntax, control flow, and tracing habits in one place. Keep it open beside the editor while you build.

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Core syntax

Use DECLARE, assignment, INPUT, OUTPUT, comments, constants, and typed values in a consistent exam-style format.

  • Assignment uses <-
  • Variables use explicit types
  • Comments start with //

Selection and loops

Pick IF, CASE, FOR, WHILE, or REPEAT UNTIL based on when the condition is known and when it should be tested.

  • FOR for known counts
  • WHILE can run zero times
  • REPEAT UNTIL runs first

Arrays and records

Represent list-style data with indexed arrays, then process values through counted loops and clear bounds.

  • Indexes are explicit
  • Bounds are part of declaration
  • Nested loops cover tables

Tracing and debugging

Use trace tables, line-by-line state changes, and compiler diagnostics to catch logic and syntax errors earlier.

  • Track changed variables
  • Check block endings
  • Test edge cases

examples

Small patterns you can run.

Counted total

DECLARE Number : INTEGER
DECLARE Total : INTEGER
Total <- 0

FOR Number <- 1 TO 5
    Total <- Total + Number
NEXT Number

OUTPUT "Total = ", Total

Input validation

DECLARE Choice : INTEGER

REPEAT
    OUTPUT "Choose 1 to 4"
    INPUT Choice
UNTIL Choice >= 1 AND Choice <= 4

OUTPUT "Accepted"

before you submit

A compact checking routine.

Treat the manual as a working checklist, not a long rules page. Write the algorithm, run it, then trace the parts that change state.

  • Declare every variable and array before use.
  • Initialize totals, counters, and flags before loops.
  • Use the loop type that matches the question.
  • Close every IF, CASE, and loop block clearly.
  • Trace the program with at least one normal input and one edge case.