GCSE A451 - Programming

Question 1

State what is meant by a syntax error, giving an example (2).

Answer 1

• An error in the rules/grammar of the language

- Capital P for print would be a syntax error

Question 2

Describe tools and facilities available in an integrated development environment (IDE) which
can help the programmer to identify and correct syntax errors. (4)

Answer 2

• Error messages are displayed
• Attempts to tell you what the error is
• Indicates where the error is (line number)
• Keywords are colour coded so when there is a syntax error you quickly know straight away if the colour doesn’t change

Question 3

Describe what is meant by an array.(2)

Answer 3

• A data structure
• Under one name that has many variables
• Each individual variable is given an index number

Question 4

Explain the difference between a constant and a variable (2)

Answer 4



• The value of a constant is set when the constant is declared
• The value of a variable is set while the program is running
• The value of a constant cannot be changed once the program is running
• A variable’s value changes as the program is running

Question 5

Explain the difference between an integer and a real number (2)

Answer 5

An integer is a whole number

A real number can include decimal fractions

Question 6

State what is meant by a logic error.(1)

Answer 6

The program is written to do something other than what the programmer intended