Question

Definition of Flow Charts.

Answer 1

Flow Charts :

A flow chart is a pictorial representation of an algorithm. It is often used by programmers as a programme-planning tool for organising a sequence of steps necessary to solve a problem by a computer. It uses boxes of different shapes to denote different types of instructions. The actual instructions are written with in these boxes using clear and concise statements these boxes are connected by solid lines having arrow marks to indicate the flow of operation i.e., the exact sequence in which the instructions are to be executed. The process of drawing a flow chart for an algorithm is often raftered to as flowcharting.

• Macro Flow Chart :  A flow chart, which out lines the main segments of a programme, or which shows less details is a macro flow chart.
• Micro Flow Chart : A flow chart with more detail is a micro flow chart or detailed flow chart.

Advantages of Flow Charts

1. Better Communication
2. Proper Programme Documentation
3. Efficient Coding
4. Systematic Debugging
5. Systematic Testing

Limitations of Flow Charts

• Flow charts are very time consuming, and laborious to draw with proper symbols and spacing especially for large complex programmes.
• Owing to the symbol string nature of flow charting, any changes or modifications in the programme logic will usually require a completely new flow chart.