Start Every Coding Challenge with Pseudo Code

Damian Dąbrowski
3 min readApr 26, 2021

If you’re learning to code, it may be overwhelming at first. So many concepts and techniques, and the ability to recall them in the heat of a coding challenge is difficult. But what you may not realize is that there’s a simple way to organize your thoughts before writing code that will make these challenges easier — one you’re likely using regularly without even realizing.

Coding challenges are a great way to test your knowledge of a programming language, for both job seekers and developers. It can be helpful to approach coding challenges in a specific way. This article provides tips on how to write pseudo code, as well as some suggestions for further research if you find yourself without an answer. We’ll cover some benefits of pseudo-code, why it’s so effective, and how you can begin using it every time you start a new coding challenge.

What is Pseudo-code?

Pseudo-code is a way of writing code that doesn’t use specific language syntax. It’s a way of describing the function of code in plain English.

How to approach code challenges with pseudo-code

Pseudo-code is a way of outlining the skeletal structure of a program and it’s a good way to get down the basic elements of a program and to learn how to code faster. When you’re learning to code, you’re not just learning the language — you’re learning how to think like a computer.

Pseudo Code Example

Let’s write a function that will teleport our player when he reaches the boundaries of the screen area. We will start with pseudo code and then write the function using C#.

Tips for success when using pseudo-code

Pseudo code is good to use in the following situations:

  1. When the algorithm is complex.
  2. When you want to share an idea, but you don’t want to share your actual code.
  3. While you want to share your code with many people.
  4. When you want someone else to write the code.

While you’re looking for a solution to a problem you currently have, consider breaking your problem down into smaller, more manageable parts. So often, we make big decisions based on too many factors, so we make decisions that cover the bulk of these factors.

No matter what language you’re learning to code in, you’ll be better prepared to start and finish projects if you use pseudo-code before diving into the programming. Pseudo-code is a tool to help you overcome challenges and learn how to code better and faster. Try it out and see if it works for you!

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Damian Dąbrowski

Hi, I’m Damian, a Software Engineer who loves building educational apps and simulations..