Software Engineering › Key terms › Code patterns › Subroutine and function (pseudocode)
Subroutine and function (pseudocode)
Code pattern Code patterns
Definition
BEGIN name (parameters) ... END name. A function returns a single value with RETURN.
Example
BEGIN Add (x, y) total = x + y RETURN total END AddFound in: syllabus, course specifications, sample exam and familiarisation guidelines, school notes, 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.
- Python: Write or complete it in the online Python tool.
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 Q14 (3 marks): Algorithm design (subroutines) The Software Engineering Project (Part B) · 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: Subroutine and function (pseudocode) 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: “BEGIN name (parameters) ...” Then apply it: BEGIN Add (x, y) total = x + y RETURN total END Add
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.
Worked answers from the marking guidelines
Sample exam Q14 (3 marks): Algorithm design (subroutines) (3 marks): criteria and sample answer
Criteria
3: Substantially correct pseudocode that includes at least ONE subroutine. 2: Addresses some of the requirements. 1: Some understanding of the problem.
Sample answer
BEGIN main Get num_pizzas total_cost = 0 FOR i = 1 TO num_pizzas Get pizza_size Get num_toppings cost_per_pizza = calculate_pizza_cost(pizza_size, num_toppings) DISPLAY cost_per_pizza total_cost = total_cost + cost_per_pizza NEXT i DISPLAY total_cost END main
BEGIN calculate_pizza_cost(size, num_toppings) base_price = 10 topping_price = 1.5 IF size = "Medium" THEN base_price = base_price + 2 ELSEIF size = "Large" THEN base_price = base_price + 4 ENDIF pizza_cost = base_price + num_toppings * topping_price RETURN pizza_cost END calculate_pizza_cost
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.
- 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) · Array sum pattern · Linear search pattern