Binary selection (IF THEN ELSE)

Code pattern

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Definition

IF condition THEN process ELSE other process ENDIF: one of two paths is taken.

Example

IF age >= 18 THEN DISPLAY "Adult" ELSE DISPLAY "Minor" ENDIF

Found in: course specifications, past SDD papers.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Code patterns.

Question types it can appear in

Pseudocode: Use it correctly in the exam pseudocode editor.
Code reading: Code or algorithm reading: interpret a fragment and state its output or purpose.
Drawing: Draw or label it in the online drawing tool.

Where it has appeared in the paper

The Software Engineering Project (Part A). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

Code pattern: “IF condition THEN process ELSE other process ENDIF: one of two paths is taken.” Then apply it: IF age >= 18 THEN DISPLAY "Adult" ELSE DISPLAY "Minor" ENDIF

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Go deeper

Flashcard: Binary selection (IF THEN ELSE) in Code Patterns: Pseudocode, Python, SQL, CSS (Years 11 and 12) · study that set
Memorise: Python and SQL you must be able to write
Notes: Control structures in HSC pseudocode (Pseudocode, flowcharts and diagram rules)
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Binary selection (IF THEN ELSE)

Check yourself

Write or say the “Binary selection (IF THEN ELSE)” pattern from memory: the syntax and what it does.

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