Algorithms
An algorithm is simply a set of steps used to complete a specific task . They're the building blocks for programming, and they allow things like computers, smartphones, and websites to function and make decisions. In addition to being used by technology, a lot of things we do on a daily basis are…
Sequences, selections, and loops
Behind all of the software we use on a daily basis, there's a code being run with all sorts of terms and symbols. Surprisingly, it can often be broken down into three simple programming structures called sequences , selections , and loops . These come together to form the most basic instructions and …
Programming languages
Everything we do on computers and smartphones has some sort of code behind it telling it what to do. But have you ever thought about how this code gets written? There are thousands of languages in the world around us, and in the the digital world, things aren't so different. There are also tons of d…
Binary
Throughout history, almost every civilization has used a decimal number system with 10 digits : zero through nine. All of the numbers we can possibly think of use some combination of these 10 digits. Computers, however, operate differently. Instead, they use a number system that has just two digits : one…
Understanding Applications
You may have heard people talking about using a program , an application , or an app . But what exactly does that mean? Simply put, an app is a type of software that allows you to perform specific tasks . Applications for desktop or laptop computers are sometimes called desktop applications , while those for m…
Should I learn to code?
In recent years, there's been a lot of hype around coding : that it's an invaluable skill everyone should learn or that it's a field where there's a lot of money to be made. And while there are a lot of great reasons to learn to code, it might not be the best career choice for everyone. I…
Hardware and software
Hardware and software are two terms you've probably heard of at some point or another. The odds are high that you use both on a daily basis, whether it's with your smartphone or personal computer. Hardware is any element of a computer that's physical . This includes things like monitors , …
Understanding Operating Systems
What is an operating system? An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It manages the computer's memory and processes , as well as all of its software and hardware . It also allows you to communicate with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer'…
Mobile Devices
What is a mobile device? A mobile device is a general term for any type of handheld computer . These devices are designed to be extremely portable, and they can often fit in your hand. Some mobile devices—like tablets , e-readers , and smartphones —are powerful enough to do many of the same things you c…
Laptop Computers
What is a laptop computer? A laptop is a personal computer that can be easily moved and used in a variety of locations. Most laptops are designed to have all of the functionality of a desktop computer, which means they can generally run the same software and open the same types of files . However, la…
Inside a Computer
Inside a computer Have you ever looked inside a computer case , or seen pictures of the inside of one? The small parts may look complicated, but the inside of a computer case isn't really all that mysterious. This lesson will help you master some of the basic terminology and understand a bit more…