Introduction to Flowcharts

Control flow refers to the order in which individual statements, instructions, or function calls are executed. Flowcharts represent three fundamental control structures:

3.1 Sequence Structure

Definition: Steps are executed one after another in linear sequence.

Flowchart Representation: A straight line of connected symbols (no branches).

Example: Addition of two number

3.2 Selection Structure (Decision Making)

Definition: Different paths are taken based on a condition.

Flowchart Representation: Diamond symbol with multiple outgoing paths.

Types:

        i.            Simple Selection: If-then structure

      ii.            Double Selection: If-then-else structure

    iii.            Multiple Selection: Nested if or case structure

Example: Checking if a number is positive or negative.

3.3 Iteration Structure (Looping)

Definition: Repeating a set of steps while a condition is true.

Flowchart Representation: Flowline looping back to a previous point.

Types:

        i.            Pre-test Loop: Condition checked before execution (while loop)

      ii.            Post-test Loop: Condition checked after execution (do-while loop)

Example: Printing numbers from 1 to 10.