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Difference Between Algorithm and Flowchart

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What is an Algorithm?

The word Algorithm means “a process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations”. Therefore Algorithm refers to a set of rules/instructions that step-by-step define how a work is to be executed in order to get the expected results. Let’s take a look at an example for a better understanding. As a programmer, we are all aware of the Linear Search program. (Linear Search

 

Algorithm of linear search:

  • Start from the leftmost element of arr[] and one by one compare x with each element of arr[]. 
  • If x matches with an element, return the index. 
  • If x doesn’t match with any of elements, return -1. 

What is a Flowchart?

A flowchart is a graphical representation of an algorithm. Programmers often use it as a program-planning tool to solve a problem. It makes use of symbols that are connected among them to indicate the flow of information and processing. The process of drawing a flowchart for an algorithm is known as “flowcharting”. Example: Draw a flowchart to input two numbers from the user and display the largest of two numbers  

 

Difference between algorithm and flow chart:

S. No Algorithm Flowchart
1. An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure to solve a problem. A flowchart is a diagram created with different shapes to show the flow of data.
2. The algorithm is complex to understand. A flowchart is easy to understand.
3. In the algorithm, plain text is used. In the flowchart, symbols/shapes are used.
4. The algorithm is easy to debug. A flowchart is hard to debug.
5. The algorithm is difficult to construct. A flowchart is simple to construct.
6. The algorithm does not follow any rules. The flowchart follows rules to be constructed.
7. The algorithm is the pseudo-code for the program. A flowchart is just a graphical representation of that logic.

Last Updated : 31 Aug, 2022
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