How Cognitive Processes Work Behind Computer Programming

Programming is a complex task that requires a variety of cognitive skills. Three of the most significant cognitive processes involved in programming are short-term memory (STM), working memory, and long-term memory (LTM).

Short-term memory (STM)?stores information that you are currently thinking about. This information can only be held in STM for a short period of time, typically around 20-30 seconds. For example, you might use STM to remember a phone number while dialing it or to keep track of the steps in a recipe while cooking.

Working memory?is a combination of STM and LTM. It is where you actively process information and make decisions. For example, you might use working memory to solve a math problem, write a program, or plan a vacation.

Long-term memory (LTM)?stores information that you have learned over time. This information can be factual, procedural, or conceptual. For example, you might have long-term memories of your childhood, how to ride a bike, or the principles of physics.

These three cognitive processes interact when you are programming. When information enters your brain through your senses, it is stored in short-term memory. To remember it for longer, you transfer it to working memory where it is combined with long-term memory information to help you process the information and make decisions. The information is either discarded or stored in long-term memory after processing.

For example, let's say you are writing a program to calculate the factorial of a number. You'll need to rely on your short-term memory to keep track of each step in the calculation as well as the input number. Additionally, you'll need to use your long-term memory to remember the concept of factorials and the process for calculating them. Once you finish calculating the factorial, you can store the result in your long-term memory for future use.

The process of programming involves complex and demanding cognitive tasks. However, with practice, programmers can gain the skills and knowledge necessary for success.

Here are some tips for improving your cognitive skills for programming:

• Practice solving problems.?The more you practice solving problems, the more skilled you become at utilizing your working memory.
• Learn new things.?The more information you learn, the easier it will be to access it when programming and storing it in your long-term memory (LTM).
• Take breaks.?When you are programming, it is essential to take breaks to give your STM a chance to rest. It will help you to stay focused and avoid making mistakes.

Aside from the cognitive processes delineated earlier, there are several other variables that can impact the programming process. These include:

• Attention:?The ability to maintain a strong sense of concentration on the task at hand steering clear of any potential interruptions.
• Creativity:?The ability to come up with new and innovative solutions to problems.
• Self-discipline:?The ability to stay motivated and to work on a project until it is complete.
• Problem-solving skills:?The ability to identify and solve problems.

By developing these skills and abilities, you can become a more effective programmer and create high-quality software that meets the needs of your users. If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below.

Khalid Mahmood
Founder of Bazm-e-BME
Biomedical Engineering Department
Hamdard University Karachi