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Flowchart – a diagram representing the logical sequence in which

a combination of steps or operations is to be performed. It consists


of labeled geometrical symbols that are interconnected to provide a
pictorial representation of a data processing procedure. A flowchart
is actually a visual representation of an algorithm.

Flowcharts are the most widely used graphic method for describing
computer operations. Their major uses are in documentation and
in programming. As a documentation tool, a flowchart aids in
communicating the nature of the operation, regardless of the
programming language or the computer used.

ADVANTAGES OF FLOWCHARTS
There are advantages and limitations in the use of flowcharts.
Among its advantages are:
1. Since flowcharts are language-independent, they can be
learned and applied without formal knowledge of a
programming language.
2. It enforces users to give attention to significant matters over the
less significant ones.
3. Being graphically portrayed, flowcharts provide an alternative to
the usual narrative description of a system or a program.
4. Flowcharts are easier to understand than a program written in a
particular programming language.

Limitations of Flowcharts
1. Flowcharts do not represent a programming language and are
more of a person-to-person than a person-to-computer
means of communication. A computer cannot accept a
program described in flowcharting form.
2. Since thinking in graphic terms is not normal, flowcharts cannot
be viewed as a natural means of communication.
3. Certain details often require a long sequence of interconnected
symbols which could easily be described in just a few lines of
explanation.
4. It does not convey why a given set of operations is made. Flow-
charts only portray how.
5. Flowcharts do not highlight the important details since each step
receives as much attention in a flowchart as any other.

TYPES OF FLOWCHARTS
1. Program Flowchart. A program flowchart describes
graphically in detail the logical operations and steps within a
program and the sequence in which these sleeps are to be
executed for the transformation of data to produce the needed
output.
2. System Flowchart. A system flowchart is a graphic
representation of the procedures involved in converting data on
input media to data in output form. It illustrates which data is
used or introduced at various points in a sequence of
operations. System flowcharts portray the interaction
among data, hardware, and personnel. The emphasis is on
the media used and the work stations through which the data
passes. Since it illustrates more on the components of the
system used, little is shown about how processing will be
accomplished.

FLOWCHARTING SYMBOLS

1.Input/Output Symbol (Parallelogram). The input/output symbol


represents an instruction to an input or an output device.
2.Processing Symbol (Rectangle). This symbol is used to
represent a group of program instructions that perform a
processing function of the program such as to perform arithmetic
operations, or to compare, sort, etc.
3.Decision Symbol (Diamond). This diamond-shaped box
denotes a point in the program where more than one path can be
taken. It is used to document points in the program where, based
upon variable conditions, a branch to alternative paths is possible.
The particular path that is chosen depends on the answer to a
question or the result of a test which is inserted in the symbol.
4.Preparation Symbol (Hexagon). This symbol is used to
represent an instruction or group of instructions that will alter, or
modify a program's course of execution. It is commonly used to
specify operations such as control, index register, initialization,
switch setting, and in indicating loops.
5.Terminal Symbol (Oval). The terminal symbol is used to desig-
nate the beginning and the end of a program, or a point oi
interruption. It can also be used elsewhere in the flowchart for
specifying error conditions, such as parity error checks or
detection of invalid characters.
6.Predefined Process Symbol (Rectangle with Two Vertical
Bars). This symbol is a specialized process symbol that
represents i named operation or programmed step not explicitly
detailed in thl program flowchart. As a subroutine symbol, it can
be used when procedure needs to be repeated several times.
Rather than writ the instructions for the procedure each time it is
needed, Mi predefined process symbol is used.
7.On-page Connector (Small Circle). This is a nonprocessil
symbol which is used to connect one part of a flowchart to another
without drawing flowlines. It denotes an entry or an exit from
another part of the flowchart and also used to change the
reading sequence of a flowchart on the same page. On-
page connectors conserve space by keeping related
blocks near one another, reduces the number of flowlines
in complex programs, and eliminates cross lines from
taking place. It aids in developing a clearer, better
organized, and more simplified flowchart.
8.Flow Direction Indicators (Arrowheads). Arrowheads are
used to show the direction of processing or data flow.
These are added to flow lines if a flowchart appears
confusing in its layout.
9.Off-page Connector (Small Pentagon). This type of
connector is used instead of the on-page connector to
designate entry to or exit from a page when a flowchart
requires more than one page. The off-page connector is
commonly used in complex flowcharts which often require
a detailed diagram extending over several pages.
10.Flow Lines (Horizontal/Vertical Lines). Flow lines are used to
how reading order or sequence in which flowchart symbols
are to be read. Flow lines are sometimes drawn with
arrowheads. The commonly accepted practice is to
indicate an arrowhead if the logic flow is from right to left
or from bottom to top. Arrowheads are not required when
the logic flow is from top to bottom or from right to left.
1. The radius of a circle is equal to one unit. Draw a
flowchart to compute the corresponding area of the circle
and print out the value of the radius and the area.
2. Given three numbers A, B, and C. Draw a flowchart to
compute and print out the sum, the average, and the
product of these numbers.
3. The ABC Manufacturing Company plans to give a year-
end bonus to each of its employees. Draw a flowchart
which will compute the bonus of an employee. Consider
the following criteria: If the employee’s annual salary is
greater than 100,000 pesos, the bonus is 10% of his
annual salary otherwise the bonus is 10,000 pesos. Print
out the name and corresponding bonus of the employee.
4. Given two numbers X and Y. Draw a flowchart to
determine the difference between X and Y. If X-Y is
negative, compute R=X + Y; if X-Y is zero, compute
R=2X + 2Y; and if X-Y is positive, compute R=X*Y. Print
out the value of X, Y, and R.
5. The neighborhood youth are raising funds for their
project. In order to raise funds, the youth decided to sell
lemonade in the neighborhood with prices that is based
on the current temperature such as:
Temperature Price
35 and 25
above
30 to 34 20
25 to 29 15
21 to 24 10
Below 21 0
Draw a flowchart that will compute the lemonade’s price.
Print out the current temperature and the lemonade price
as output.

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