Updated on February 03, 2025
by PushtoLearn
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Unit 2 - Introduction to Software

In this unit, you'll learn software vocabulary, including bugs, crashes, execution, and compatibility. You'll also explore different types of software, such as open source and closed source, and important tools like IDEs used by programmers. Mastering these terms will make it easier to navigate the world of software development, testing, and maintenance.

Unit 2, English for IT Exercises and Flashcards

These exercises focus on Unit 2, English for IT

Wordlist for Unit 2, English for IT

Word

Definition

Example

bug

an error or glitch in a computer program caused by a programmer's mistake

An average developer will create one bug for every 10 lines of code written.

closed source

software in which the license stipulates that the user cannot see, edit, or manipulate the source code of a software program

I wanted to develop a new feature for the program, but I couldn't because it was closed source.

compatible

capable of being used without modification

The IBM 360 was the first commercially successful computer family with a wide range of compatible parts.

crash

a computer failure which aborts an application or freezes an operating system

The user was advised to reboot the computer after a serious crash in which the computer no longer responded.

end user

a person who uses a product or service on a computer

Developers must maintain a close relationship with end users if they want to have a successful career.

error

an incorrect action attributable to poor judgment, ignorance, or inattention

The computer reported a division by zero error and automatically aborted the program.

execute

to start a program on a computer

The program was set to execute every night at midnight.

feature

something a computer program is supposed to do; often a reason to buy or upgrade software

The man upgraded his copy of Word because of a new feature that allowed him to spell-check documents in Spanish.

IDE (integrated development environment)

an application normally consisting of a source code editor, a compiler and/or interpreter, build- automation tools, and a debugger

The new employee asked his boss to buy him a license for his favorite IDE because there was none installed on his new company laptop.

open source

a program in which the code is distributed allowing programmers to alter and change the original software as much as they like

The article stated that many programmers prefer open source solutions because they can modify features and fix bugs without waiting for an upgrade or patch from the manufacturer.

programmer

a person who writes or modifies software

The software company needed to hire three new programmers to help debug their flagship application.

Illustration of Unit 2 - Introduction to Software

FAQ

What is the difference between open source and closed source software?

Open source software is freely available for anyone to use, modify, and distribute, while closed source software is proprietary and controlled by a specific company or developer.

What causes a software crash?

A crash occurs when a program unexpectedly stops working, often due to bugs, memory issues, or compatibility problems.

What does it mean to execute a program?

To execute a program means to run it on a computer, allowing it to perform its intended functions.

Why is software compatibility important?

Compatible software works correctly with a specific operating system, hardware, or other applications. Incompatibility can lead to errors or crashes.

What is an IDE, and why do programmers use it?

An IDE (Integrated Development Environment) is a software tool that provides a code editor, debugger, and other features to help programmers develop applications efficiently.

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