Session 3,4 Algorithm and flowchart

📘 Chapter Introduction

This session introduces two of the most essential tools in programming and problem-solving: Algorithms and Flowcharts. Before writing code, it's crucial to design a clear plan—and that’s where these tools come in. Algorithms provide step-by-step instructions to solve a problem, while flowcharts use visual symbols to make those instructions easy to follow.

🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, students will:

• Define and explain the importance of algorithms and flowcharts.

• Identify standard flowchart symbols and their purposes.

• Learn how to structure logic for decision-making in a program.

• Create an algorithm and flowchart for common real-world problems like Profit and Loss.

📚 Content Covered

1. What is a Flowchart?

• A visual diagram showing the step-by-step plan to solve a problem.

• Uses symbols like boxes, diamonds, parallelograms, and arrows.

2. Flowchart Symbols

3. Example Flowchart – Profit & Loss

• Inputs: Cost Price (C.P.) and Selling Price (S.P.)

• Logic:

  • If SP > CP → Profit = SP – CP

  • If CP > SP → Loss = CP – SP

  • Else → No Profit, No Loss

4. What is an Algorithm?

• A sequence of logical steps to solve a problem.

• Written in simple language.

💻 Example: Algorithm for Profit or Loss

Step 1: Start
Step 2: Input Cost Price (CP)
Step 3: Input Selling Price (SP)
Step 4: If SP > CP
            Profit = SP - CP
            Print "Profit" and Profit
        Else if CP > SP
            Loss = CP - SP
            Print "Loss" and Loss
        Else
            Print "No Profit No Loss"
Step 5: End

🧰 Requirements

• Basic understanding of input/output and comparison logic.

• Awareness of conditional flow (if-else).

• Tools: Paper/pencil or software for drawing flowcharts (like Lucidchart or draw.io).

🏁 Learning Outcomes

After completing this session, you’ll be able to:

• Distinguish between a flowchart and an algorithm.

• Recognize how visual representation improves logic clarity.

• Design algorithms and flowcharts for problem-solving.

• Apply this knowledge before diving into actual coding tasks.