Write pseudocode for the linear search algorithm, and then explain it’s complexity using big-O notation

Pseudocode: FUNCTION linearSearch(list, searchTerm):               FOR index FROM 0 -> length(list):                               IF list[index] == searchTerm THEN                                               RETURN index                               ENDIF               ENDLOOP               RETURN -1 ENDFUNCTION Complexity: Recognize that the single for loop will access each element in the list once in WCS.If each element is accessed once, then as list grows the time taken (WCS) grows in linear timeTherefore : O(n)What about best case? Average case?Encourage comparison with other known/unknown algorithms

JN
Answered by Jacob N. Computing tutor

27884 Views

See similar Computing A Level tutors

Related Computing A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the range of denary numbers that can be represented using 8-bit two’s complement binary integers?


Explain why it is important to check the email address with JavaScript and again when it reaches the server.


Represent the denary number 5.625 as an unsigned binary fixed point number with three bits before and five bits after the binary point.


How to represent a negative decimal number using 8-bit binary two's complement ?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning