IB Computer Science Topic B1.1.2: Fundamental Concepts of Computational Thinking Key Definitions

Focusing on the essential features of a problem and removing the details that do not affect the outcome, leaving a simplified model that can be reused on similar problems.

A step-by-step set of clear, precise and unambiguous instructions that solves a problem or produces a required outcome. It can be written as sentences, pseudocode or a flowchart before it becomes code.

The set of techniques used to define a problem and work out how it could be solved, made up of abstraction, algorithmic design, decomposition and pattern recognition. It does not necessarily involve programming.

Breaking a complex problem or system into smaller parts, each with one clear job, so that every part can be understood and solved on its own.

Identifying similarities, trends or recurring structures within a problem or its data, so that a solution that already works can be reused or adapted.