Introduction to Computing with Pascal

by Norman L. Biggs

This book is an introduction to computing in general, and the Pascal language in particular. It is suitable for anyone who has studied mathematics up to the age of 16 or thereabouts. A simple model of computing is used to describe the meaning of a programming language, and this framework is used to develop Pascal from the simplest constructions through to recursion and pointers. Programming methodology is treated from a structured, but informal, viewpoint, and the modular approach is stressed throughout. In parallel with the development of Pascal, the book introduces topics of general interest in computing, such algorithms and their efficiency, searching and sorting, termination and verification of programs, and abstract data types. Each section contains exercises for the student, and at the end of each chapter there are suggestions for practical work. The intention is to lead the student naturally to more advanced studies of computing, without having to unlearn anything contained in this book.

230 pages, Paperback

First published July 27, 1989