STRUCTURED PROGRAMMING Meaning and
Definition
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Structured programming is a programming paradigm that focuses on organizing and designing computer programs in a logical and systematic manner. It emphasizes the use of clear and well-defined structures such as loops, conditions, and subroutines to facilitate the development, understanding, and maintenance of software.
At its core, structured programming promotes the use of structured control flow constructs, such as sequence, selection, and iteration, to guide the execution of a program. This allows the code to be more readable, efficient, and easier to debug. The concept of "structured" refers to the hierarchical arrangement and organization of program elements, enabling the development of software modules that are more manageable and comprehensible.
One of the key advantages of structured programming is the reduction of complexity. By breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable components, developers can design programs that are easier to write, comprehend, and modify. Additionally, structured programming reduces the reliance on the often error-prone technique of using goto statements, which could lead to "spaghetti code" that is difficult to follow and maintain.
Structured programming has become one of the fundamental building blocks for modern software development, providing a systematic approach to writing code that is logical, maintainable, and adaptable. It has influenced the development of numerous programming languages, compilers, and development tools. By adhering to the principles of structured programming, developers can create well-organized and reliable software systems.
Etymology of STRUCTURED PROGRAMMING
The word "structured programming" originated in the field of computer science in the 1960s and 1970s. It is derived from the term "structure theorem", which was introduced by computer scientist Corrado Böhm in the late 1960s.
The idea behind structured programming is to use logical structures and control flow constructs to enhance the clarity and maintainability of computer programs. The term gained popularity with the publication of the influential book "Structured Programming" by Ole-Johan Dahl and Kristen Nygaard in 1972.
"Structured" in this context refers to the organization of code using structures like sequences, loops, and conditionals, which made programs easier to understand and reason about. This concept was a departure from older programming styles that relied heavily on unstructured jumps and "goto" statements, which often led to spaghetti code and made programs harder to comprehend and modify.
