Arizona State University (ASU) CSE110 Principles of Programming Exam 1 Practice

The emphasis on a "first, do-it-by-hand" approach in the problem-solving process is grounded in the understanding that if a programmer can manually compute a solution to a problem, it demonstrates a clear grasp of the problem's mechanics and underlying logic. Being able to solve the problem by hand ensures that the programmer has absorbed the necessary concepts and can conceptualize the steps required to arrive at a solution.

This foundational understanding becomes crucial when transitioning to programming, as the logic and thought processes for manual calculations often directly inform how the program should be structured and what algorithms need to be implemented. In essence, if a programmer struggles to compute a solution manually, they may lack the insight or clarity required to translate that solution into code effectively. Therefore, this approach serves not only as a verification method but also as a preparatory step to build confidence and competence in programming solutions.