Flowchart Algorithm and Pseudocode
Algorithm/Flow Chart
An algorithm is a step-by-step set of procedures. Algorithms are used for in IT to design programs. It is
good practice to write the algorithm first, although a lot of experience and knowledge of the programming
language helps.
Here are the main symbols. In Word, these are included in the Insert > Shapes > Flowchart section
The main symbols are a parallelogram for
input and output of data (e.g. keyboard,
read from database, print to screen, etc.)
and rectangle for process (e.g.
concatenate, change image name, check
variables match, etc.).
Start
Correct
password
entered?
Display login
screen
Correct
name
entered?
Display login
screen
Logout
button
pressed?
Display page
fully
Process
Input/
Output Data
Decision
Connector
End
Pseudocode
Pseudo code is an outline of a program, written in
plain English which can easily be converted into
real programming statements at a later date.
Pseudocode cannot be executed to run; it is
intended for human reading, e.g.
Request username and password from user
Check username and password with database
If both match
Open welcome page
Else
Request username and password again
Real programming
statements
Exercise
Draw the flow chart symbols
Start/End
Process
Input/Output
Connector
Decison
Indicate how you would draw flow chart symbols for the following:
Enter your name
Compare values
Print to screen
Is name correct?
Divide 12 by 5
Making a cup of tea/coffee
Describe using a simple algorithm and set of pseudocode how you would make a cup of tea/coffee or any
beverage.
Pseudocode
Algorithm/Flowchart