the value of x begins at 2, and the value of y begins at 8. 1. add 1 to x, and subtract 2 from y. 2. if x < y, add 2 to x, and subtract 1 from y. otherwise, add 3 to x, and add 2 to y. 3. repeat step 2 three more times. 4. let z = x*y.