FLOW CHART

FLOW CHART

A program flow chart is a pictorial representation of logic required to accomplish a task. It includes all necessary steps to be included in a program. It is called flowchart, because it charts the flow of a program. It is a symbolic representation of each input, output and processing steps. Besides being a good method of writing down the algorithm, it is also a part of program documentation and helps in understanding, debugging, and maintaining of programs.

In the flowcharting technique, operations are represented by drawing appropriate symbol for an action. The symbols are connected by arrows to show the flow of the process. Basic symbols used in flow chart are as follows :

- Rules for developing a Flow Chart :

1.   First chart the main line of logic then incorporate detail.

2.    Maintain a consistent level of detail for a given flow chart.

3.    Flow chart never only is a graphical representation, step by step, of the program. A reader who is interested in greater details can refer to the program itself.

4.    Words, which are used in flow chart should be common statements and easy to understand. It always written in person’s own language rather than a machine language.

5.    Variables and names should be consistent in flowchart.

6.    Flow chart should be followed from top to bottom and left to right manner.

7.    A decision box can have only one entry point but must have two exit points either “YES” or “NO”.