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WHILE loop (pre-test)

Code pattern Code patterns

Definition

WHILE condition is true ... ENDWHILE: the condition is tested before each loop, so the body may never run.

Example

WHILE count < 5 ... ENDWHILE

Found in: course specifications, past SDD papers.

Where it is used in the test

Syllabus area: Code patterns.

Question types it can appear in

Where it has appeared in the paper

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

Related past questions

These are the questions the flashcard set links to this term. Open each one and compare your answer with its marking criteria.

Other questions that mention it

Study links

How to use it in an answer

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

Code pattern: “WHILE condition is true ...” Then apply it: WHILE count < 5 ... ENDWHILE

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

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.

Sample exam Q9 (2 marks): Algorithm design (guessing game) · contains a reasoned or flagged note, read it as such

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"

Open the question page

Common mistakes

Marker feedback on other questions of the same type (code and diagram feedback often applies across questions)
  • 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 · REPEAT UNTIL loop (post-test) · FOR / NEXT loop (counted) · Subroutine and function (pseudocode) · Array sum pattern · Linear search pattern

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