Pseudocode is a methodology used in programming and algorithm-based fields to represent the implementation of an algorithm. It is a description of the steps in an algorithm using a mix of conventions of programming languages with informal, usually self-explanatory, notation of actions and conditions. Pseudocode is written in plain English text and uses reserved keywords like if-else, for, while, etc. to represent the algorithm in code-like structure. It is intended for human understanding rather than machine reading and is used to document algorithms and in planning of software and other algorithms.

Pseudocode is an intermediate state between an idea and its implementation in a high-level language. It is an efficient and environment-independent description of the key principles of an algorithm. Pseudocode is used to improve the readability of any approach and acts as a bridge between the program and the algorithm or flowchart. It is also used as a rough documentation, so the program of one developer can be understood easily when a pseudocode is written out.

The advantages of using pseudocode include improving the readability of any approach, acting as a bridge between the program and the algorithm or flowchart, and simplifying code construction. Pseudocode is an underestimated and under-utilized tool within the programming community, but a clear, concise, straightforward pseudocode can make a big difference on the road from idea to implementation.