Sequential Execution
Sequential execution is a fundamental programming concept where instructions in a program are executed one after another in a strict, linear order, with each step completing before the next begins. It forms the basis of traditional single-threaded programming models, ensuring predictable control flow and deterministic behavior in code. This contrasts with parallel or concurrent execution, where multiple tasks can overlap or run simultaneously.
Developers should understand sequential execution as it underpins most programming logic, especially in procedural and object-oriented languages like C, Java, or Python, where code is typically written and executed line-by-line. It is essential for tasks requiring strict order, such as data processing pipelines, state-dependent operations, or when debugging, as it simplifies reasoning about program flow. Learning this concept helps in designing efficient algorithms and transitioning to more complex models like concurrency.