Algorithm and Flowcharts

• An algorithm is a series of instructions given to the computer to perform or carry out  a particular task.
• A flow chart gives a pictorial representation of these step-by-step procedures  to be performed by the computer to achieve a particular solution and is actually a visual  representation of an algorithm. 
• A special plastic or metallic card called a template is used to draw the symbols in a  flowchart.
• The template is used to stencil the required symbols .It contain both system and  program flowcharting symbols as cut out forms.
•  Input / Output Symbol - represents an instruction to an input or an output device.
• Processing Symbol - represents a group of program instructions  that perform a processing function of the program such as to perform arithmetic operations, or to compare, sort, etc. 
• Decision Symbol - denotes a point in the program where more than one path can be taken. 
• Preparation Symbol - used to represent an instruction or group of  instruction that will alter, or modify a program’s course of execution. 
• Terminal Symbol - used to designate the beginning and the end  of a program, or a point of interruption.
• Predefined Process Symbol - represents a named operation or programmed step not explicitly detailed in the program flowchart.
• On-page Connector - Non-processing symbol which is used to connect one part of a flowchart to another without drawing flowlines.
• Flow Direction Indicators - show the direction of processing or data flow.
• Off-page Connector - used instead of the on-page connector to designate entry to or exit from a page when a flowchart requires more than one page.
• Flowlines - used to show reading order or sequence in which flowchart symbols are to be read.