Algorithm and Flowchart
What is Algorithm?
To write a logical step-by-step method to solve the problem is called algorithm, in
other words, an algorithm is a procedure for solving problems. In order to solve a
mathematical or computer problem, this is the first step of the procedure. An
algorithm includes calculations, reasoning and data processing. Algorithms can be
presented by natural languages, pseudo code and flowcharts, etc.
What is Flowchart?
A flowchart is the graphical or pictorial representation of an algorithm with
the help of different symbols, shapes and arrows in order to demonstrate a
process or a program. With algorithms, we can easily understand a program.
The main purpose of a flowchart is to analyze different processes. Several
standard graphics are applied in a flowchart:
Terminal Box - Start / End
Input / Output
Process / Instruction
Decision
Connector / Arrow
The graphics above represent different part of a flowchart. The process in a
flowchart can be expressed through boxes and arrows with different sizes and
colors. In a flowchart, we can easily highlight a certain element and the
relationships between each part.
Difference between Algorithm and Flowchart
If you compare a flowchart to a movie, then an algorithm is the story of that
movie. In other words, an algorithm is the core of a flowchart. Actually, in the
field of computer programming, there are many differences between algorithm
and flowchart regarding various aspects, such as the accuracy, the way they
display, and the way people feel about them. Below is a table illustrating the
differences between them in details.
Algorithm Flowchart
It is a procedure for solving problems. It is a graphic representation of a process.
The process is shown in step-by-step The process is shown in block-by-block information
instruction. diagram.
It is complex and difficult to understand. It is intuitive and easy to understand.
It is convenient to debug errors. It is hard to debug errors.
The solution is showcased in natural
The solution is showcased in pictorial format.
language.
It is somewhat easier to solve complex
It is hard to solve complex problem.
problem.
It costs more time to create an algorithm. It costs less time to create a flowchart.
How to Use Flowcharts to Represent Algorithms?
Algorithms are mainly used for mathematical and computer programs, whilst
flowcharts can be used to describe all sorts of processes: business, educational,
personal and of course algorithms. So flowcharts are often used as a program
planning tool to visually organize the step-by-step process of a program.
Example 1: Print 1 to 20:
Algorithm:
Step 1: Initialize X as 0,
Step 2: Increment X by 1,
Step 3: Print X,
Step 4: If X is less than 20 then go back to step 2.
Flowchart:
Example 2: Convert Temperature from Fahrenheit (℉) to Celsius (℃)
Algorithm:
Step 1: Read temperature in Fahrenheit,
Step 2: Calculate temperature with formula C=5/9*(F-32),
Step 3: Print C,
Flowchart:
