FOR / NEXT loop (counted)

Code pattern Check Code patterns

Definition

FOR variable = start TO finish STEP increment ... NEXT variable; used when the number of repeats is known.

Example

FOR i = 1 TO 5 ... NEXT i

Check this one: Not found word-for-word in the supplied syllabus, specifications, marking guidelines or notes; the definition is standard computing knowledge, so check it against your class notes.

Where it is used 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.
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.

Study links

Flashcard: FOR / NEXT loop (counted) 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

General advice, built from the definition and example above

Code pattern: “FOR variable = start TO finish STEP increment ...” Then apply it: FOR i = 1 TO 5 ... NEXT i

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

2025 HSC Q17 (3 marks): Algorithm design

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

Marker feedback on other questions of the same type (code and diagram feedback often applies across questions)

Check the sources: Not found word-for-word in the supplied syllabus, specifications, marking guidelines or notes; the definition is standard computing knowledge, so check it against your class notes.
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.

General advice

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.

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) · Subroutine and function (pseudocode) · Array sum pattern · Linear search pattern

← FlowchartA to ZFTP and SFTP →

← CSS rule syntaxIn Code patternsGlobal and local variables →