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Chapter 4 Algorithms and Flowcharts Class 8 ICSE

Chapter 4 discusses algorithms and flowcharts, defining an algorithm as a step-by-step method for solving problems and a flowchart as a visual representation of these steps. Key features of a good algorithm include clarity, logical order, and the ability to take input and produce output, while flowcharts utilize symbols to depict processes. Both tools are crucial for planning, reducing errors, and enhancing communication in programming.

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35 views4 pages

Chapter 4 Algorithms and Flowcharts Class 8 ICSE

Chapter 4 discusses algorithms and flowcharts, defining an algorithm as a step-by-step method for solving problems and a flowchart as a visual representation of these steps. Key features of a good algorithm include clarity, logical order, and the ability to take input and produce output, while flowcharts utilize symbols to depict processes. Both tools are crucial for planning, reducing errors, and enhancing communication in programming.

Uploaded by

antaradutta072
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Chapter 4 – Algorithms and Flowcharts

Class 8 – ICSE Computer Applications

🔷 Summary (Short Version)

What is an Algorithm?
- An algorithm is a step-by-step method to solve a problem or complete a task.
- It is written in simple English and helps a computer programmer know what to do and
how to do it.

Features of a Good Algorithm:


1. Clear and precise steps.
2. Definite start and end.
3. Takes input and gives output.
4. Steps should be in a logical order.

Example: Algorithm to Add Two Numbers:


1. Start
2. Input first number → A
3. Input second number → B
4. Add A and B → C
5. Display C
6. Stop

What is a Flowchart?
- A flowchart is a visual diagram that shows the steps of an algorithm.
- It uses symbols and arrows to represent actions and flow of control.

Common Flowchart Symbols:


- Terminal (Oval): Start or End
- Input/Output (Parallelogram): Enter or Display data
- Process (Rectangle): Action or calculation
- Decision (Diamond): Yes/No or True/False condition
- Arrow (Line): Shows the direction of flow

Example: Flowchart to Add Two Numbers:


- Start (Oval)
- Input A, B (Parallelogram)
- C = A + B (Rectangle)
- Display C (Parallelogram)
- End (Oval)
Importance of Algorithms and Flowcharts:
1. Helps in planning before coding.
2. Reduces mistakes in the program.
3. Makes debugging and testing easier.
4. Improves communication and understanding.

Difference between Algorithm and Flowchart:


| Feature | Algorithm | Flowchart |
|---------|-----------|-----------|
| Form | Written steps | Diagram with symbols |
| Language | English-like | Graphical |
| Easy to Write | Yes | Slightly harder |
| Easy to Understand | Sometimes | Yes, visually |

📘 Detailed Explanation

What is an Algorithm?
An algorithm is a finite set of instructions written in a step-by-step manner to solve a
particular problem.

Key Points:
- Written in simple language (usually English).
- Steps are numbered and ordered logically.
- It must always give the correct result if the steps are followed properly.
- Used in programming to plan what the program will do.

Properties of a Good Algorithm:


1. Finiteness – It must end after a certain number of steps.
2. Definiteness – Each step must be clear and not confusing.
3. Input – It should accept input values.
4. Output – It should produce results.
5. Effectiveness – All steps must be simple enough to be done easily.

Example Algorithms:

Algorithm to Add Two Numbers:


1. Start
2. Read number A
3. Read number B
4. Add A and B → store in C
5. Display C
6. Stop
Algorithm to Check Even or Odd:
1. Start
2. Read a number (N)
3. Divide N by 2
4. If remainder is 0, then it's Even
5. Else, it is Odd
6. Stop

What is a Flowchart?
A flowchart is a diagrammatic representation of an algorithm. It shows each step using
symbols and arrows to indicate the flow of control.

Standard Flowchart Symbols:


- Terminator (Oval): Start or Stop
- Input/Output (Parallelogram): Read or Display data
- Process (Rectangle): Action, calculation, or process
- Decision (Diamond): Yes/No or True/False decisions
- Arrow (Line): Shows flow of control

Example Flowchart Descriptions:

Flowchart to Add Two Numbers:


1. Start (Oval)
2. Input A and B (Parallelogram)
3. Add A + B = C (Rectangle)
4. Output C (Parallelogram)
5. Stop (Oval)

Flowchart to Check Even or Odd:


1. Start
2. Input N
3. N % 2 == 0? (Diamond)
- Yes → Print "Even"
- No → Print "Odd"
4. Stop

Uses of Algorithms and Flowcharts:


- Helps break down big problems into smaller steps
- Allows programmers to plan before writing code
- Easy to test each step for errors
- Helps explain the working of a program to others
Difference Between Algorithm and Flowchart:

| Feature | Algorithm | Flowchart |


|--------|-----------|-----------|
| Form | Text-based | Visual diagram |
| Ease of Writing | Easier | Takes more time |
| Understanding | Medium | Easier to understand visually |
| Used By | Beginners and experts | Mostly for beginners or planning |

Practice Questions:
1. Write an algorithm to find the greater of two numbers.
2. Draw a flowchart to find the average of three numbers.
3. What is the difference between algorithm and flowchart?
4. What are the advantages of using a flowchart?

Conclusion:
- An algorithm is a list of steps to solve a problem.
- A flowchart is a diagram that shows those steps clearly.
- Both are essential tools for planning programs and problem-solving in computer science.

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