Structure diagrams

Structure diagrams are visual representations that show how a problem can be broken down into smaller sub-problems. They use a tree-like hierarchy where the main problem is at the top and each level below breaks it into smaller tasks. This is a direct application of decomposition and helps plan the design of a program before writing code.

Key points

• Structure diagrams show the hierarchy of a problem broken into sub-problems.
• The main problem sits at the top, with sub-problems branching below it.
• Each sub-problem can be further broken down into even smaller tasks.
• They help visualise how different parts of a program relate to each other.
• Structure diagrams are useful for planning before writing pseudocode or program code.
• They are a direct application of the decomposition principle of computational thinking.
• Exam Tip:You may be asked to complete a structure diagram by placing tasks into boxes. Read the scenario carefully to identify which tasks belong at each level.
• Example: Parents' Evening App → Log in, Book appointment, View appointments (→ On-screen, Print), Update details.