Programming Codes

Programming Languages

In computers, there are multiple objects that must come together, working in tandem, in order for the computer to function. There are various hardware components, such as a CPU and monitor; as well as software to create a functioning computer. Most people today understand this basic relationship but not everyone understands the programming involved in creating reliable, functioning software. This paper will compare and contrast two of the programming methods; object-oriented programming (OOP) and procedural programming (PPL).

Both forms of programming have one common goal; to make reliable software applications for the end user. The software developed from these tools resolves a task for the user, whether it be for work or play. All programming is made by a combination of modules; this breaks the overall program down into manageable chunks that can be created and tested independently. Object-oriented programming and procedural programming however, are quite different otherwise.

Procedural programming language (PPL) is what is called a "Top Down Design." The first thing done is to identify a procedure (problem) and then break it into smaller and smaller pieces until each sub-procedure is a manageable chunk. The process of breaking down procedures is called decomposition. One issue with procedural programming is that if a change is made in the upper echelons of the programming code, it can have a trickle down effect in the program. Procedural programming can be time-consuming, and the maintenance can be difficult. Procedural code can be reused as long as the sub-procedures are relevant.

Object-oriented programming (OOP) is not a top down method. OOP instead, breaks programming into classes. Classes are a type of data and each type of data is further broken down into objects. Objects use messages