This introduction covers Where Variables Live within Variable Scope for GCSE Computer Science. Revise Variable Scope in 3.2 Programming for GCSE Computer Science with 18 exam-style questions and 10 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 2 of 7 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Where Variables Live
Scope is where a variable can be seen and used. A local variable is like your bedroom - only you can access it, and when you leave, it's cleaned up. A global variable is like the living room - everyone in the house can use it, and it's always there. Local variables exist only inside their function. Global variables exist everywhere. Generally, prefer local - it's tidier and safer!
Practice questions for Variable Scope
Where can a local variable be accessed?
Identify and explain the scope error in this pseudocode: function calculateTotal(price, quantity) local total = price * quantity endfunction calculateTotal(10, 5) output total