Programming flowchart symbols are essential tools used in developing computer programs. These symbols are graphical representations of processes, data, and decision-making steps in a program. They help programmers visualize the program’s structure and logic and make it easier to understand and modify.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the different types of programming flowchart symbols and their uses. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced programmer, this guide will provide you with valuable information that will help you improve your programming skills and develop efficient programs.
Process Symbols
The process symbol is used to represent a specific action or operation in a program. It is represented by a rectangle with rounded corners. Examples of process symbols include:
- Start/End Symbol: This symbol is used to indicate the beginning or end of a program. It is represented by an oval shape.
- Input/Output Symbol: This symbol is used to represent a data input or output operation. It is represented by a parallelogram.
- Process Symbol: This symbol is used to represent any other operation or process in a program that does not involve data input or output. It is represented by a rectangle with rounded corners.
Flow Control Symbols
The flow control symbols are used to represent decision-making processes in a program. They enable the program to make choices based on certain conditions. Examples of flow control symbols include:
- Decision Symbol: This symbol is used to represent a decision-making process in a program. It is represented by a diamond shape and has two or more branches that indicate the different possible outcomes of the decision.
- Conditional Symbol: This symbol is used to represent a conditional statement in a program. It is represented by a rectangle with rounded corners and has one or more conditions that must be met before a specific action is taken.
- Looping Symbol: This symbol is used to represent a looping or repeating process in a program. It is represented by a rectangle with rounded corners and has an arrow that loops back to the beginning of the process.
Connector Symbols
The connector symbols are used to connect different parts of a program and indicate the flow of data or control between them. Examples of connector symbols include:
- Off-page Connector Symbol: This symbol is used to indicate that part of the program is located on a different page or in a different file. It is represented by a small circle with a letter or number inside it.
- On-page Connector Symbol: This symbol is used to connect different parts of a program that are located on the same page or in the same file. It is represented by a small circle.
Arithmetic Symbols
The arithmetic symbols are used to perform mathematical operations in a program. They include:
- Addition Symbol: This symbol is used to perform addition operations. It is represented by a plus sign (+).
- Subtraction Symbol: This symbol is used to perform subtraction operations. It is represented by a minus sign (-).
- Multiplication Symbol: This symbol is used to perform multiplication operations. It is represented by an asterisk (*)
- Division Symbol: This symbol is used to perform division operations. It is represented by a forward slash (/).
Conclusion
Programming flowchart symbols are essential tools for any programmer. They help programmers visualize the program’s structure and logic and make it easier to understand and modify. In this comprehensive guide, we have discussed the different types of programming flowchart symbols and their uses. With this knowledge, you can improve your programming skills and develop efficient programs that meet your needs.