Flowchart:

M3-R5.1 · Chapter 2: Algorithms and Flowcharts to Solve Problems · 3 min read

Difinition: A flowchart is a visual representation of the steps or the flow of a process involved in solving a problem or performing a task. It uses a standardized set of symbols to depict the flow of control and operations within a system. Flowcharts are commonly used in programming, algorithm design, and process modelling to help understand and communicate complex processes in a clear, easy-to-follow manner.

Guidelines for Drawing a Flowchart

  • There should be only one entry/starting point and one exit point of the flowchart.
  • Use the correct symbol at each stage in the flowchart.
  • The logical flow should clearly be shown using arrows.
  • Use connectors to reduce the number of flow lines.
  • Lines should ideally be vertical or horizontal.
  • Do not give every detail on the flowchart. A reader who is interested in greater details can refer to the program itself.
  •  Statements in the flowchart symbols should be accurate  and easy to understand.
  • Be consistent in using names and variables in the flowchart. Use descriptive variable names.
  • Go from left to right and top-to-bottom while constructing flowcharts.
  • Keep the flowchart simple. The crossing of flow lines should be avoided.
  • If a new flowcharting page is needed, it is recommended that the flowchart is broken at an input or output point. Moreover, properly labelled connectors should be used to link the portions of the flowchart on different pages.

    Flowchart Symbols and Their Used:

    Symbol

    Symbol Name

    Use For

    Purpose

     Oval / Ellipse (Terminator)

    Start/Stop

    OR

    Begin/End

    Used at the beginning and end of the algorithm to show start and end of the program.

    Parallelogram

    Input/ Output

    Used for denoting program inputs and outputs.

                               OR

    Take values from an external source and assign them to Variables on a terminal or print the value of variables

    Rectangle (Process / Action)

    Processing  

    Indicates processes like mathematical and logical operations. OR Represents a process, operation, or action step

    Diamond

    Decision

    Represents a decision-making step (Yes/No or True/False) or Indicates a decision point

    Arrow

    Arrow or Flow Lines

    Shows relationships between different shapes.

                                   OR

    Shows the flow of the process from one step to another

       Circle

    On-page Connector

    Used to connect parts of the flowchart when space is limited or the chart spans multiple pages.

    Pentagon / Home Plate

    Off-page Connector

    Connects two parts of a flowchart which are spread over different pages.