Lab Introduction

Data is a big part of what you do, no matter which language you’re working with. In this lesson, we’ll talk about the different types of data type classifications.

Data Type Classifications

• Primitive
• Composite (e.g. array and collection)
• Special (e.g. enumerated)
• Abstract (e.g. list, objects)

Why are Data Type Classifications Important?

What are some of the reasons you need to know about these data types?

• You need to understand how the data is being computed. Knowing how each of these data types is represented helps you avoid unexpected results.
  • What happens when you compare a floating point to an integer number?
  • What is the result when adding a floating point to an integer?
  • What is type-casting?
• Memory usage becomes very important when dealing with large amounts of data.
  • Computers represent and map numbers based upon their type.
  • Performant
• Data is an essential element in software.
• Certain languages (e.g. C, Java, Pascal) require you to declare the data type.