Conclusions

Programming

The constructs we have learnt (loops, conditions, data structures) mean that we are far more expressive as programmers.

Combined with abstractions we can compose and recompose new programs.

Building on our previously defined concept of a house we now use repetition to define a row of houses.

def row_of_houses(number, size):
    for i in range(number):
        house(size)
        turtle.forward(size)

This is how complex and useful programs are built.

Abstractions

We have gone from understanding this:

turtle.forward(100)
turtle.left(90)
turtle.forward(100)
turtle.left(90)
turtle.forward(100)
turtle.left(90)
turtle.forward(100)
turtle.left(90)

to programming like this:

def square(side):
    for i in range(4):
        turtle.forward(side)
        turtle.left(90)

Why is the second version better than the first?

Computers are complex. Even the smallest operation hides layers of incredible complexity. Programming is not only about getting a computer to do things. It is about writing code that is useful to humans.

Good programming is harnessing complexity by writing code that rhymes with our intuitions. Good code is code that we can use with a minimal amout of context and already be productive.

By calling:

>>> square(100)

The above code called square can be understood even by a non programmer. Intuition helps because the code is defined at the appropriate level of abstraction over the complex details for understanding to take place.

The two major advantages are:

  • detail and complexity is hidden.
  • the definition of the function object called square is shorter clearer and truer to its mathematical (conceptual) definition.

This course illustrates that creative programming is about constructing useful abstractions. It is also about exercising your intuition to make you more productive.

Design

We have gone from step by step instructions to defining blocks of code in such a way as to define higher level concepts.

Defining reusable components and the ability to repeat them is immensely powerful.

Think of everything you can make from Lego bricks. Minecraft is a world build with cubes. In the real world think of all the components and repetition you typically find in a skyscraper.

This is where programming starts to become creative. You can define the universe of things that is of interest to you.

Exercises

A Text editor

Think about the objects that you’d have to use to reprsent editing text.

Your Project

Programmers model other domains. Think of an area where you are expert and how you might code it.

What objects, functions and variables would need to be defined?