Difference between Algorithm and Flow chart
Algorithm and flowcharts both are used when creating new programs. An algorithm is a step-by-step analysis of the process, whereas the flowchart explains the steps in a graphical manner.
In this article, we are going to discuss algorithm, flowchart, and the comparison between them. So, without any delay, let’s start the topic.
Algorithm
Before solving a problem, one should know what to do, how to do it, and what types of steps should be taken. So, an algorithm is a step-by-step method for solving a problem. An algorithm refers to a set of instructions that define the execution of work to get the expected results.
To make the program work properly, we must have to properly design the algorithm. Designing the algorithm helps to utilize the computing resources effectively.
Generally, the algorithms are written in natural language or in plain English language. We can represent algorithms via flowcharts, pseudo code, and others.
Sometimes algorithms are difficult to understand, and it is also difficult to show looping and branching using an algorithm. Apart from programming languages or programs, the algorithm can be designed for any problem, as it is a step-by-step solution of a program.
Advantages of algorithm
- Algorithms are easy to write.
- There is a use of human-readable techniques to understand logic.
- For big problems, algorithms can be written with moderate steps.
Disadvantages of algorithm
- Algorithms are difficult to debug.
- It is hard to show branches and loops using an algorithm.
- Jumping (or goto statements) makes the algorithm hard to trace the problems.
Now, let’s see an example of an algorithm.
Example: Write an algorithm to print the numbers from 1 to 20.
Algorithm:
Step 1: Initialize a variable ‘x’ as 0,
Step 2: Increment the variable ‘x’ by 1,
Step 3: Print the variable ‘x’
Step 4: If ‘x’ is less than 20, then go back to step 2. Otherwise, go to the next step.
Step 5: Exit.
Flowchart
The Flowchart is the most widely used graphical representation of an algorithm and procedural design workflows. It uses various symbols to show the operations and decisions to be followed in a program. It flows in sequential order. As an instance, a parallelogram in the flowchart may be used to indicate input and output, a rectangular box indicates a mathematical operation, a diamond symbol indicates the decision-making statements, and several other symbols are used in flowcharts.
In many cases, a programmer usually makes a flowchart using paper and pencil or makes it by connecting the shapes on a computer screen using the software. In a large system, a flowchart is an important document for a system and individual program because it summarizes a program’s function in the form of symbols that are easy to understand and clearly explained in English.
Advantages of flowchart
- Proper debugging
- Effective analysis
- Efficient coding
- Proper documentation
- Efficient program maintenance
Disadvantages of flowchart
- Time-consuming
- Complex
- Difficult to modify
- It has no standard
Let’s see an example of a flowchart.
Example: Design a flowchart to calculate the area of a rectangle.
Solution: The flowchart for calculating the rectangle’s area is represented as follows –
So, we have seen both algorithms and flowcharts along with their advantages, disadvantages, and examples. Now, let’s see the comparison between both of them.
Algorithm v/s Flowchart
Here, we will show the comparison chart between the algorithm and flow chart on the basis of some characteristics.
| On the basis of | Algorithm | Flowchart |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | An algorithm is a step-by-step method for solving some problem. An algorithm refers to a set of instructions that define the execution of work to get the expected results. | The Flowchart is the most widely used graphical representation of an algorithm and procedural design workflows. It uses various symbols to show the operations and decisions to be followed in a program. |
| Comprehensibility | Algorithm is hard to understand. | Flowchart is easy to understand. |
| Implementation | There are no rules employed for algorithms. | Predefined rules are implemented for flowcharts. |
| Symbols used | It uses plain text, which is written in plain English language. | It uses symbols such as parallelogram, rectangle, diamond, etc. |
| Debugging | Algorithms are easy to debug. | Flowcharts are hard to debug. |
| Nature | Algorithms are the program’s pseudocode. | Flowcharts are the graphical representation of logic. |
| Branching and looping | In algorithms, it is easy to show branching and looping. | In Flowcharts, branching and looping are difficult to represent. |
That’s all about the article. Hope you find the article informative and knowledgeable to understand the algorithm, flowchart, and their comparison.