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Accurate Quote by Tony Hoare

“What is the central core of the subject [computer science]? What is it that distinguishes it from the separate subjects with which it is related? What is the linking thread which gathers these disparate branches into a single discipline. My answer to these questions is simple -it is the art of…” quote by Tony Hoare
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“What is the central core of the subject [computer science]? What is it that distinguishes it from the separate subjects with which it is related? What is the linking thread which gathers these disparate branches into a single discipline. My answer to these questions is simple -it is the art of programming a computer. It is the art of designing efficient and elegant methods of getting a computer to solve problems, theoretical or practical, small or large, simple or complex. It is the art of translating this design into an effective and accurate computer program.”

Tony Hoare

About This Quote

Source Lecture: Computer Science Foundations, Tony Hoare, 1970s

Programming is the core of computer science, uniting theory and practice by turning designs into working, efficient software.

In simple terms: Programming ties all CS topics together.

Key Takeaway

Focus on learning to program well.

Themes

education technology problem solving

Mood

instructive analytical

Type

academic technical

When to use this quote

  • teaching CS
  • software development
  • research projects

Key Concepts

algorithm design software engineering theory of computation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does programming shape your field?
  • What other skills complement coding?
A Different Perspective

It downplays non‑programming contributions like hardware or theory.

4.3 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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