An AI coding tutor for school computer science

Here's a short Python program that crashes:

scores = [72, 85, 90]
for i in range(len(scores) + 1):
    print(scores[i])

It prints the three scores, then stops with IndexError: list index out of range.

Instead of just handing you a fixed version, the tutor asks: "How many items are in scores, and what values does i take?" The list has 3 items, at positions 0, 1 and 2, but range(len(scores) + 1) produces 0, 1, 2 and 3, and there's no item at position 3. You fix it with range(len(scores)), or more simply by looping over the list itself:

for score in scores:
    print(score)

Working it out this way means you'll recognise an off-by-one error next time.

• Concept first, then code. A short explanation and a tiny example, then a question for you to try.
• You write the code. It suggests what to try next and checks your attempt, instead of producing whole programs.
• Reading errors is a skill. It shows you how to read a traceback: which line, what type of error, and what it means.
• Debugging habits. Print values, test small pieces, and predict what should happen before you run it.

• It doesn't run your code. Run your program on your own computer or in your class's coding tool, then paste the code and any error message. The tutor reasons about the code; it can be wrong about exactly what a program will output, so always test.
• Coursework rules. Many schools don't allow AI-written code in assessed projects. TutorAura helps you understand and fix your own code; follow your teacher's rules.
• Code formatting. Paste code as text (not a screenshot) so the indentation is preserved, which matters in Python.

Ask for a quiz on a topic before a test, such as converting binary to denary, tracing a loop, or choosing the right sorting algorithm. The tutor asks one question at a time and explains anything you get wrong. Our guide on how to study for a test explains why testing yourself works.