ALGORITHM & FLOWCHART
Grade 8
ALGORITHM: Software Engineer commonly uses an algorithm for planning and solving the problems.
An algorithm is a sequence of steps to solve a particular problem or algorithm is an ordered set of
unambiguous steps that produces a result and terminates in a finite time.
Algorithm has the following characteristics
• Input: An algorithm may or may not require input
• Output: Each algorithm is expected to produce at least one result
• Definiteness: Each instruction must be clear and unambiguous.
• Finiteness: If the instructions of an algorithm are executed, the algorithm should terminate after
finite number of steps.
The algorithm and flowchart include following three types of control structures.
1. Sequence: In the sequence structure, statements are placed one after the other and the
execution takes place starting from up to down.
2. Branching (Selection): In branch control, there is a condition and according to a condition, a
decision of either TRUE or FALSE is achieved. In the case of TRUE, one of the two branches is
explored; but in the case of FALSE condition, the other alternative is taken. Generally, the ‘IF-THEN’
is used to represent branch control.
3. Loop (Repetition): The Loop or Repetition allows a statement(s) to be executed repeatedly based
on certain loop condition e.g. WHILE, FOR loops.
Advantages of algorithm
• It is a step-wise representation of a solution to a given problem, which makes it easy to
understand.
• An algorithm uses a definite procedure.
• It is not dependent on any programming language, so it is easy to understand for anyone even
without programming knowledge.
• Every step in an algorithm has its own logical sequence so it is easy to debug
FLOWCHART:
The first design of flowchart goes back to 1945 which was designed by John Von Neumann. Unlike an
algorithm, Flowchart uses different symbols to design a solution to a problem. It is another
commonly used programming tool. By looking at a Flowchart one can understand the operations and
sequence of operations performed in a system. Flowchart is often considered as a blueprint of a
design used for solving a specific problem.
Advantages of flowchart:
• Flowchart is an excellent way of communicating the logic of a program.
• Easy and efficient to analyse problem using flowchart.
• During program development cycle, the flowchart plays the role of a blueprint, which makes
program development process easier.
• After successful development of a program, it needs continuous timely maintenance during the
course of its operation. The flowchart makes program or system maintenance easier.
• It is easy to convert the flowchart into any programming language code.
1. Write an Algorithm & draw a flowchart to convert temperature from Celsius to Fahrenheit
C : temperature in Celsius F : temperature Fahrenheit
Formula:
F = (9.0/5.0 x C) + 32