Module D · Computational Thinking & Programming

Curriculum hours: 48 · The biggest module. Python and pseudocode appear in every Paper 1.

Chapter map

Chapter	Sub-topics	Hours
1 · Problem-Formulation & Analysis	IPO, decomposition, pattern recognition	5
2 · Algorithm Design	Pseudocode, flowcharts, data, control structures, traces, modularity	12
3 · Program Development (Python)	Setup, variables, I/O, selection, iteration, lists, strings, algorithms	20
4 · Program Testing & Debugging	Test data, error types, debugging	11

Language note

For Paper 1 and 2025–2027 Paper 2C: candidates may answer in Python, C++ or Pascal. From 2028 only Python and C++ are accepted. This site uses Python (the most popular choice and the language recommended by HKEAA reference papers).

Big-picture workflow

Real-world problem
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Problem analysis  (Chapter 1)
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Algorithm design (pseudocode / flowchart) — Chapter 2
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Program development (Python) — Chapter 3
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Testing & debugging — Chapter 4
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Deployment & maintenance

Why this module is critical

• Programming questions appear in every Paper 1.
• Module D is the foundation for Elective 2C.
• Pseudocode reading / writing skill helps with SBA Task 1.
• The 48 hours of curriculum time is the largest of any compulsory module.

Practice every week

You cannot cram programming. Run at least one Python program per week from S4 onwards.

➡️ Start: Chapter 1 · Problem-Formulation & Analysis