The discussion focuses on problem-solving using FOR loops and arrays, particularly in Visual Basic, while also referencing C++ for comparison. A FOR loop performs three main functions: it initializes a counter variable, increments it, and checks a condition to determine if the loop should continue. In C++, the syntax involves initializing a variable and specifying a condition, as demonstrated with a loop that executes code while a counter is less than a specified value. In Visual Basic, the syntax differs slightly, using the DIM statement to declare an array and a FOR loop to iterate through values. Examples illustrate how to populate an array with the seven times table and how to adjust the increment step in the loop. The content emphasizes the fundamental mechanics of FOR loops and their application in array manipulation across programming languages.