Flowchart
A flowchart is a diagram that represents a process or algorithm. The steps are
represented by a series of boxes or other specialized symbols, then connected with
arrows.
A flowchart is a type of diagram that represents an algorithm, workflow or process,
showing the steps as boxes of various kinds, and their order by connecting them with
arrows. This diagrammatic representation illustrates a solution model to a given
problem. Flowcharts are used in analyzing, designing, documenting or managing a
process or program in various fields.
Basic Flowchart Symbols
The Process Symbol represents any process, function, or action and is
the most frequently used symbol in flowcharting.
The Document Symbol is used to represent any type of hard copy input
or output (i.e. reports).
Offpage Connector Symbols are used to indicate the flowchart continues
on another page. Often, the page number is placed in the shape for easy
reference.
The Input/Output Symbol represents data that is available for input or
resulting from processing (i.e. customer database records).
Comment Symbols are used when additional explanation or comment is
required. This symbol is usually connected to the symbol it is explaining
by a dashed line.
, The Decision Symbol is a junction where a decision must be made. A
single entry may have any number of alternative solutions, but only one
can be chosen.
The Connector Symbol represents the exit to, or entry from, another part
of the same flowchart. It is usually used to break a flow line that will be
continued elsewhere. It's a good idea to reference page numbers for
easy location of connectors.
Arrows are used to show the flow of logic / data (→ , ← , ↓)
Advantages and Limitations of Flowchart
Advantages:
It provides an easy way of communication because any other person besides
the programmer can understand the way they are represented.
It represents the data flow.
It provides a clear overview of the entire program and problem and solution.
It checks the accuracy in logic flow.
It documents the steps followed in an algorithm.
It provides the facility for coding.
It provides the way of modification of running program.
They shows all major elements and their relationship.
Limitations:
1. Sometimes, the program logic is quite complicated. In that case, flowchart
becomes complex and clumsy.
,2. Alterations and Modifications: If alterations are required the flowchart may require
re-drawing completely.
3. Reproduction: As the flowchart symbols cannot be typed, reproduction of
flowchart becomes a problem.
Draw a flowchart to find the sum of the first 50 natural numbers.
, Draw a flowchart to find the largest of three numbers A, B, and C.
Draw a flowchart for computing factorial N (N!)
Where N! = 1?2?3? ... N .
A flowchart is a diagram that represents a process or algorithm. The steps are
represented by a series of boxes or other specialized symbols, then connected with
arrows.
A flowchart is a type of diagram that represents an algorithm, workflow or process,
showing the steps as boxes of various kinds, and their order by connecting them with
arrows. This diagrammatic representation illustrates a solution model to a given
problem. Flowcharts are used in analyzing, designing, documenting or managing a
process or program in various fields.
Basic Flowchart Symbols
The Process Symbol represents any process, function, or action and is
the most frequently used symbol in flowcharting.
The Document Symbol is used to represent any type of hard copy input
or output (i.e. reports).
Offpage Connector Symbols are used to indicate the flowchart continues
on another page. Often, the page number is placed in the shape for easy
reference.
The Input/Output Symbol represents data that is available for input or
resulting from processing (i.e. customer database records).
Comment Symbols are used when additional explanation or comment is
required. This symbol is usually connected to the symbol it is explaining
by a dashed line.
, The Decision Symbol is a junction where a decision must be made. A
single entry may have any number of alternative solutions, but only one
can be chosen.
The Connector Symbol represents the exit to, or entry from, another part
of the same flowchart. It is usually used to break a flow line that will be
continued elsewhere. It's a good idea to reference page numbers for
easy location of connectors.
Arrows are used to show the flow of logic / data (→ , ← , ↓)
Advantages and Limitations of Flowchart
Advantages:
It provides an easy way of communication because any other person besides
the programmer can understand the way they are represented.
It represents the data flow.
It provides a clear overview of the entire program and problem and solution.
It checks the accuracy in logic flow.
It documents the steps followed in an algorithm.
It provides the facility for coding.
It provides the way of modification of running program.
They shows all major elements and their relationship.
Limitations:
1. Sometimes, the program logic is quite complicated. In that case, flowchart
becomes complex and clumsy.
,2. Alterations and Modifications: If alterations are required the flowchart may require
re-drawing completely.
3. Reproduction: As the flowchart symbols cannot be typed, reproduction of
flowchart becomes a problem.
Draw a flowchart to find the sum of the first 50 natural numbers.
, Draw a flowchart to find the largest of three numbers A, B, and C.
Draw a flowchart for computing factorial N (N!)
Where N! = 1?2?3? ... N .
