This skill introduces quantum programming from a practical software perspective. Learners examine how quantum algorithms are expressed as programs using contemporary quantum software frameworks and how these programs fit into the broader quantum software stack. Emphasis is placed on understanding common abstractions—such as circuits, backends, and execution workflows—rather than framework-specific details.

The skill provides a comparative overview of widely used frameworks (e.g. Qiskit, Cirq, PennyLane) to highlight shared concepts and design patterns, enabling learners to transfer knowledge across tools.

• QC1.3 Multi-Qubit Systems and the Gate Model of Quantum Computation

• Describe the circuit-based programming model used in quantum software frameworks.
• Explain the structure of a quantum program, including circuit construction, execution, and result retrieval.
• Identify common components of the quantum software stack, including compilers, simulators, and hardware backends.
• Compare major quantum programming frameworks at a conceptual level, focusing on shared abstractions rather than syntax.