A Level Computer Science OCR Practice Exam

What is the primary goal of code optimization?

1. To reduce the size of the program files

2. To increase program readability

3. To reduce the run-time by removing redundant instructions

4. To ensure correct execution of program logic

The correct answer is: To reduce the run-time by removing redundant instructions

The primary goal of code optimization is to reduce the run-time by removing redundant instructions. This involves analyzing the code to identify any operations that can be streamlined or eliminated, resulting in faster execution times. Code optimization can involve various techniques, such as loop unrolling, eliminating dead code, and substituting more efficient algorithms or data structures. The ultimate aim is to improve the performance of the program without sacrificing the accuracy or correctness of the output. While reducing program size, increasing readability, and ensuring correct execution are all important aspects of software development, they are not the primary focus of code optimization. Optimizing primarily centers around making the code run more efficiently, which often translates into better resource usage and a better user experience.