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. |