CS Coaching Center

Debugging problems arise where code isn’t doing what’s expected. A true debugging problem means you know how to solve the problem, and have written your code, but it’s not working. In order to get help from a Coach, make sure you can answer their first question:

Can you explain what your code should be doing?

It’s important to be able to explain this. Without this explanation, a Coach can only see what your code is actually doing, and may not be able to identify the flaw. It will save a great deal of time for you if you can tell them what should be happening.

Implementation problems are when you know how a problem should be solved, but don’t know how to write the code for it. Once again, be prepared to answer this question:

Can you explain how to solve the problem?

The answer to this question will help the Coach to figure out which pieces are still too general. It is often the case that the description can’t be translated directly into code. A Coach can help you see how to break the assignment into smaller pieces which can be helpful even on future assignments.

A conceptual issue is when you don’t know how to approach solving a problem. Ultimately, all problems can be broken down into pieces that fit concepts you have learned in class. It’s sometimes difficult to do that. In these cases, it is still important to prepare to meet a Coach so you can be helped in an efficient manner. Make sure you’re able to answer each of the following questions.

1. What are the key topics/principles you learned in class recently? Often these are included as objectives listed on the assignment.
2. What are some solutions you have thought of, even if they were wrong?
3. What is the very first thing your program needs to do?

The first step of an assignment is often something simple, such as display a welcome message, however, you might not realize that there are parts that you know how to do. Make sure to spend time thinking about the problem in a step-by-step manner. Doing this will help the Coachs to assist you in learning the concepts that you really are struggling with.