GCSE Computer Science (CCEA)

Topic Summaries

ALGORITHMS AND PROGRAMMING: Algorithm representation

Nesting in algorithms

  • Nesting refers to putting one control structure inside another for more complex algorithms with multiple layers of decision-making or repetition.
  Method Use case Example
Nested selection One selection statement is placed inside another. The inner condition is only checked if the outer condition is met. Tests multiple related conditions, checks input in steps (e.g. username correct, then password correct)

IF x > 0

THEN IF x < 10

THEN ...

Nested iteration One loop runs inside another. The inner loop completes for each cycle of the outer loop Comparing arrays and performing large repetitions

FOR i = 1

TO 5: WHILE

condition ...

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