Software Engineering › Key terms › Code patterns › REPEAT UNTIL loop (post-test)
REPEAT UNTIL loop (post-test)
Code pattern Code patterns
Definition
REPEAT ... UNTIL condition is true: the body runs at least once, then the condition is tested.
Example
REPEAT GET guess UNTIL guess = answerFound in: course specifications, past SDD papers.
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.
Where it has appeared in the paper
The Software Engineering Project (Part B). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.
Related past questions
- Sample exam Q9 (2 marks): Algorithm design (guessing game) The Software Engineering Project (Part B) · 2 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: REPEAT UNTIL loop (post-test) 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: “REPEAT ...” Then apply it: REPEAT GET guess UNTIL guess = answer
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.
What the marking guidelines and feedback say
The prompt/Get guess pair must be inside the loop; 'Well Done' after ENDWHILE.
Worked answers from the marking guidelines
Sample exam Q9 (2 marks): Algorithm design (guessing game) (2 marks): criteria and sample answer
Criteria
2: Correctly orders the steps. 1: Correctly orders the WHILE and ENDWHILE steps.
Sample answer
Set number = random integer between 0 and 100 WHILE guess <> number Display "Guess a number between 0 and 100:" Get guess ENDWHILE Display "Well Done"
Common mistakes
- 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.
- 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) · FOR / NEXT loop (counted) · Subroutine and function (pseudocode) · Array sum pattern · Linear search pattern