Breaking Down Solution into Simple Steps

Problem Solving

Today, we use computers in every field for various purposes. But, we know that they cannot solve the problems all by themselves. Furthermore, we have to give step by step instructions to the computer for solving the problem. We can define problem-solving as a process of understanding the problem, designing an algorithm for it, and finally implementing the solution to it. We can analyze the program easily by breaking down solution into simple steps.

Therefore, we can say that a successful problem-solving process depends on the following factors:

• understanding the problem and defining it precisely.
• designing a proper algorithm (solution) for it.
• implementing the algorithm successfully.

When the problems are easy we can easily search out a solution. Whereas, complex problems require step by step process to solve. Hence, this means that we have to apply problem-solving techniques to solve the problem. Furthermore, this starts with finding a precise definition of the problem and ends with a successful solution. We can analyze the program easily by breaking down solution into simple steps. Let us study about breaking down solution into simple steps.

Breaking down solution into simple steps (Modular Approach)

To analyze a problem we should break it into simple steps to make the task easier. Modular programming is basically breaking down the problem into subproblems. Furthermore, we can define a module as a sub-program. Therefore, breaking down solution into simple steps makes it easy for the programmer to develop the whole solution. Besides, we can use a particular module in other programs also.

The problem in developing a solution

There are certain problems that a programmer can face while developing a solution. They are as follows:

• It is difficult to code, implement and test a big solution as a whole.
• Maintenance is difficult.
• It is difficult to detect and correct errors.

Therefore, we use modular programming to develop the solution easily.

Browse more Topics Under Problem Solving Methodologies

• Understanding of the Problem
• Solution for the Problem
• Identification of Arithmetic and Logical Operations
• Control Structure
• Introduction to Algorithms/Flowcharts

Advantages of breaking down the solution into simple steps

The advantages of modular programming are as follows:

Easy to use

It is easier to access or debug small modules compared to thousand lines of code.

Reuse of modules

The modules perform only a particular function. Hence, they can be reused in other programs that require that function. Moreover, we do not have to write the whole program again.

Easy to maintain

While working on a complex problem, different programmers are given different sub-modules. Hence, it is easy to combine the modules and understand the working.

Important points in the Modular Approach

While breaking down solution into simple steps it is quite important to keep certain points in mind. These aspects are as follows:

• There should be a limitation to each module.
• It is very important to identify a module. This means that the programmer should decide which module to include or not.
• Understand the need for functionalities well.
• The modules should be able to communicate with each other smoothly. Since this is very important to run the entire program code. Moreover, it should produce the correct results.