What are the two main types of programming errors?

Prepare for the PLTW Computer Science Essentials Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and detailed explanations. Master your exam preparations today!

The correct answer identifies syntax errors and runtime errors as the two main types of programming errors, which aligns with established concepts in software development.

Syntax errors occur when the code is written in a way that does not conform to the language's rules. These errors are typically identified during the compilation process, meaning the program will not successfully compile until these issues are resolved. This type of error prevents the program from running entirely because it's related to incorrect language structure.

Runtime errors, on the other hand, arise when the program is running. Even if the code is syntactically correct, it can still encounter issues during execution due to problems like division by zero, accessing out-of-bounds elements in an array, or attempting to use a variable that hasn’t been initialized. These types of errors are often harder to diagnose because they occur while the program is in operation.

The other options mix up these concepts or use different terminology that does not accurately represent standard programming error classifications. By clearly distinguishing between syntax errors and runtime errors, the correct answer provides a foundational understanding of the types of errors programmers encounter while coding.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy