A Level Computer Science OCR Practice Exam

What does the concept of Decomposition refer to in programming?

1. Breaking down an array into sorted segments

2. Dividing a complex problem into smaller, manageable parts

3. Converting data structures into simpler forms

4. Mapping relationships in a graph

The correct answer is: Dividing a complex problem into smaller, manageable parts

The concept of Decomposition in programming involves dividing a complex problem into smaller, manageable parts, which can be tackled individually. This approach is beneficial because it simplifies the development process; smaller components can be addressed one at a time, making it easier to understand, debug, and maintain each part of the solution. When a problem is decomposed, each smaller part can often be solved using its own specific logic or algorithms, allowing for more efficient programming practices. This method also promotes code reusability since similar problems can leverage pre-existing solutions. Decomposition is a fundamental principle in both programming and computer science, as it aids in organizing thoughts, structuring code, and ultimately leading to more efficient project completion.