Flowchart

Algorithm

Pseudo Code

Code

Engr. Muhammad Bilal

1. Flow Chart

 Definition: A graphical representation of a process or algorithm using symbols and

arrows to illustrate the flow of control.
 Components:
o Shapes: Common shapes include ovals (start/end), rectangles (process steps),
diamonds (decision points), and arrows (flow direction).
 Purpose: To provide a visual overview of a process, making it easier to understand the
sequence of actions and decisions.
 Use Cases: Often used in planning and designing processes, and for presentations or
documentation where clarity is essential.
 Advantages:
o Easy to understand at a glance.
o Useful for communicating ideas to non-programmers.
 Disadvantages:
o Can become complex with larger processes.
o Less precise than textual representations.
2. Algorithm

 Definition: A step-by-step procedure or formula for solving a problem or completing a

task, usually expressed in natural language or a structured format.
 Components:
o Steps: A finite sequence of instructions or operations.
o Logic: Must be unambiguous and effective, leading to a solution.
 Purpose: To outline the process clearly and logically without worrying about syntax.
 Use Cases: Used in problem-solving, planning, and theoretical computer science.
 Advantages:
o Clear logical structure.
o Language-agnostic; can be implemented in any programming language.
 Disadvantages:
o Might require familiarity with the problem domain.
o Can be too abstract for practical implementation without further detail.

3. Pseudocode

 Definition: A method of designing algorithms using a structured but informal language

that resembles programming syntax.
 Components:
o Syntax: Follows conventions similar to programming languages but is simplified
and flexible.
o Structure: Often includes control structures (if statements, loops) and indentation
for readability.
 Purpose: To bridge the gap between algorithms and actual code, making it easier to
visualize the implementation.
 Use Cases: Common in academic settings, during the design phase of software
development, and for documentation.
 Advantages:
o Easier to write and understand than actual code.
o Focuses on logic without getting bogged down by syntax.
 Disadvantages:
o Not executable; needs translation to actual code.
o May lack standardization across different contexts.
4. Code

 Definition: The actual implementation of an algorithm in a specific programming

language, consisting of syntactically correct statements that a computer can execute.
 Components:
o Syntax: Follows strict rules defined by the programming language.
o Functions/Methods: Blocks of code that perform specific tasks.
 Purpose: To provide a functional program that can be executed to perform tasks or solve
problems.
 Use Cases: Used in all software development, from simple scripts to complex
applications.
 Advantages:
o Executable and can be tested/debugged.
o Can leverage language-specific libraries and frameworks for enhanced
functionality.
 Disadvantages:
o Requires knowledge of programming languages and syntax.
o Can be complex and difficult to read without proper documentation.
Summary of Differences:
 Nature: Flow charts are visual, algorithms are conceptual, pseudocode is semi-structured
text, and code is formalized and executable.
 Complexity: Flow charts can simplify complex processes, algorithms provide clarity,
pseudocode is easier than code but more detailed than algorithms, and code requires
precision and knowledge of syntax.
 Audience: Flow charts are for general understanding, algorithms and pseudocode cater to
developers, and code is for execution.
 Aspects Flowchart Algorithm Pseudo Code Code
A visual diagram A step-by-step A structured yet A formal
representing a procedure for informal implementation
Definition process or solving a language that of an algorithm
algorithm using problem. resembles in a
symbols. programming programming
syntax. language.
Graphical Textual, often Textual, Textual, follows
(shapes and written in natural resembling specific syntax
Format arrows). language. programming rules of a
constructs but programming
more informal. language.
To provide a To outline a To bridge the To be executed
visual overview solution logically gap between by a computer to
Purpose for clarity. and clearly. algorithms and perform tasks.
actual code.
Can become Can be abstract Simplified and
Requires
complicated with and high-level. more readableknowledge of
Complexity larger processes. than actual code.
syntax and
structure.
Documentation, Problem-solving, Planning, design, Software
process mapping. theoretical educational development,
Use Cases discussions. purposes. application
building.

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