Computing is changing; prices of computers are going lower and lower every single year. This is due to Moore’s law, which says:Over the history of computing hardware, the number of transistors in a dense integrated circuit has doubled approximately every two years. srcWhich has allowed programmers like your self to develop applications that expand millions of lines of code, with teams created all across the world. In fact some programs are so large that not one single person can comprehend everything that is going on. So what, exactly, is programming? Programming is the process of giving the computer detailed instructions to perform a specific task. What type of tasks? Anything from computing a natural number to creating the next great game. Who, exactly, gives these commands? Those are called programmers. They are responsible for creating instructions that the computer can understand. What type of instructions? This can vary from an implementation of an algorithm to custom definitions that the programmer decides to create. What are algorithms? Algorithms are a sequence of instructions that you follow for a certain outcome. The outcome can be figuring out a problem or just carrying out a procedure. Algorithms can be simple or complex. Where is the art and science? In this chapter, we will be exploring how programmers have to be creative, intuitive, and most importantly persistent in order to solve a problem. What type of problems? We will explore how problems are translated from a verbal conversation to a formal document, and then to actual code. I will provide you with a framework that you can follow to solve any type of problem. The science of programming will help you narrow down your options for a solution, and the art of programming will help you to choose a beautiful solution. I always had a passion for the field of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and I knew I wanted to do something to make a difference in the world. I just didn’t know where to start. I was an immigrant in a new country, grew up in a tough environment, and wasn’t sure how… Read More