Software Engineering › Key terms › Code patterns › Array sum pattern
Array sum pattern
Code pattern Check Code patterns
Definition
Set total to 0, loop through every item adding it to the total, then display the total (initialise, loop, accumulate, output).
Example
total = 0; FOR each item: total = total + itemCheck this one: A coding pattern from the exam solution style, not a syllabus term.
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Code patterns.
Question types it can appear in
- Pseudocode: Write algorithm (2025 Q17)
- Python: Write or complete it in the online Python tool.
Where it has appeared in the paper
The Software Engineering Project (Part A). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.
Related past questions
- 2025 HSC Q17 (3 marks): Algorithm design The Software Engineering Project (Part A) · 3 marks
These are the questions the flashcard set links to this term. Open each one and compare your answer with its marking criteria.
Study links
- Flashcard: Array sum pattern in Code Patterns: Pseudocode, Python, SQL, CSS (Years 11 and 12) · study that set
- Memorise: Python and SQL you must be able to write
How to use it in an answer
A model sentence
Code pattern: “Set total to 0, loop through every item adding it to the total, then display the total (initialise, loop, accumulate, output).” Then apply it: total = 0; FOR each item: total = total + item
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.
Technique for the question types
- Pseudocode: Write HSC-style pseudocode: capital keywords, paired END words, indentation; initialise variables; output the required result.
- Python: Write code that runs: indentation, quotes, define functions before calling them, print the required output, meet every listed requirement.
What the marking guidelines and feedback say
Marker feedback: use pseudocode control structures accurately; iterate an array and sum it; apply relational operators correctly; use the stimulus to choose the right structures.
Common mistakes
- Check the sources: A coding pattern from the exam solution style, not a syllabus term.
- Pseudocode questions (2025 HSC exam Q17): use pseudocode control structures accurately; iterate an array and sum it; apply relational operators correctly; use the stimulus to choose the right structures.
- Python questions (2025 HSC exam Q19): process string inputs; use a selection structure; code must execute in the environment; use correct indentation; call functions in the main program after defining them.
- Python questions (2025 HSC exam Q26): replicate the grid; use the random library; use selection and looping to access the list; include a method of checking the number of values; use meaningful variable names and constants; avoid overly complex structures such as nested IF loops.
- Use the term exactly as the syllabus words it, then link it to the scenario in the question; the 2025 feedback repeatedly rewards using the stimulus.
- Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.
Related terms
Same group in the syllabus: Pseudocode keywords · Sequence · Binary selection (IF THEN ELSE) · Multi-way selection (CASEWHERE) · Nested IF · WHILE loop (pre-test) · REPEAT UNTIL loop (post-test) · FOR / NEXT loop (counted) · Subroutine and function (pseudocode) · Linear search pattern