Computer Science SS2 Third Term
Week 5
Topic: Flow chart
Flow Chart
A flow chart is a pictorial or graphical representation of algorithm given to the computer and the flow of control between various steps. 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. [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]Flow chart uses a number of standards and special symbols to represent different operations specified in an algorithm.
Symbols in Flow Chart
Terminal Symbol is used to denote logical beginning or end of a flow chart. The terminator is used to show where your flow begins or ends. Ideally, you would use words like ‘Start’, ‘Begin’, ‘End’ inside the terminator object to make things more obvious. represented as lozenges, ovals or rounded rectangles, usually containing the word “Start” or “End”, or another phrase signaling the start or end of a process, such as “submit enquiry” or “receive product”.
Input/Output Symbol – Is used to denote inputting or reading values from memory and outputting values into any appropriate storage medium. You can use a parallelogram as a catch-all shape to represent different input-output devices, or use specialized figures resembling hard drives, printers, magnetic tape drives and display screens.
Decision Symbol: Is used to denote that a decision is to be taken between a number or an alternative by the computer. Decision object is represented as a Diamond. This object is always used in a process flow to as a question. And, the answer to the question determines the arrows coming out of the Diamond. This shape is quite unique with two arrows coming out of it. One from the bottom point corresponding to Yes or True and one from either the right/left point corresponding to No or False. The arrows should be always labelled to avoid confusion in the process flow.
[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
