Algorithms, Flowcharts and Pseudocode

What is an algorithm

An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or set of rules designed to perform a specific task or solve a particular problem. It is a finite sequence of well-defined, unambiguous instructions that, when executed, produce a desired output or result. Algorithms are used in various fields such as computer science, mathematics, and problem-solving in general. 

They serve as a blueprint for solving a problem by breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps, allowing for a systematic and reproducible solution. In the context of computer science, algorithms are fundamental to programming and play a crucial role in the development of software and the optimization of
computational processes.

 

Video on Problem Solving

 

 

A Flowchart

 

A flowchart is a visual representation of a process or algorithm. It uses different shapes and arrows to depict the steps and flow of a sequence. Each shape in a flowchart represents a specific action or decision, and the arrows indicate the direction of the flow. Flowcharts are commonly used in various fields, including programming, business processes, and problem-solving, to illustrate the logical flow of a system.

 

Video – Part 1

 

 

Pseudocode

 

Pseudocode, on the other hand, is a high-level description of a computer program or algorithm that uses a mixture of natural language and simple programming structures. It is not a programming language with strict syntax but serves as a tool for planning and outlining the logic of a program before actual coding. Pseudocode is often used during the initial stages of software development to communicate the algorithm’s structure in a human-readable format without getting into the details of specific programming languages.

 

Video – Part 2

 

 

 

Published by Active Learning – Dec 2023