[jonjacky]

This is a textbook for the introductory programming course, the first programming experience for many students. Maybe it would be better titled, "How to solve the programming exercises in an introductory course"

I see a lot of value in this. It gives a step-by-step method that students can follow, which often works. The prevailing alternative seems to be, "Look at a lot of examples, pick one that looks similar to the exercise, and change it around by trial and error until it kind of works." This does not generalize to professional level programming either.

At this initial stage, the goal is to build the students' confidence that if they work systematically, they can solve problems. As their education and experience continue, they can take on more realistic problems and methods.