Question

What are the gaps that newbies fail to take into account?

Answer 1

In my opinion, newbies usually tend to write code difficult to read, because they often start to program before getting a clear idea of the problem. My advice is: before starting to code, take a sheet of paper and write your intention, in english or with flowcharts. Only when the solution seems clear (or a piece of the solution if the problem is difficult) should you start coding.
To illustrate, I attached a flow chart showing my solution to ps1a.

Answer 2

yeah agree with you, before writing the algorithm, don't forget to make any requirement analysis. so it can make sure your code be on it;s place

Answer 3

a piece of the puzzle that I was missing.... :) now i have to put the code to the flow.

Answer 4

actually you should make a flow before doing code :D