The Role of Flowcharts in Computational Thinking
- Flowcharts are visual representations of algorithms, depicting the flow of control through standardized symbols.
- They are essential tools in computational thinking, helping you:
- Visualize complex processes
- Identify decision points
- Trace the execution flow
- Flowcharts are not just for beginners.
- They are used by professionals to design, debug, and optimize algorithms across various domains.
Standard Flowchart Symbols
Understanding the standard symbols is crucial for interpreting and creating flowcharts.
NoteThese symbols are standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) under ISO 5807.
| Symbol Name | Symbol | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Start/End | Indicates the beginning or end of a process. | |
| Process/Operation | Represents a set of operations that change the value, form, or location of data. | |
| Decision | Indicates a decision point with two possible outcomes (e.g., Yes/No or True/False). | |
| Input/Output | Represents the input or output of data. | |
| Flowline | Shows the order of operations. | |
| Connector | Connects different parts of a flowchart, especially in complex diagrams. |
- When tracing a flowchart, always follow the flowlines and pay close attention to decision points.
- These are where the algorithm's path can diverge.
Tracing Flowcharts: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tracing a flowchart involves following the execution flow to understand how an algorithm processes data and produces output.
- Start at the Beginning
- Locate the Start symbol.
- Follow the flowline to the first process or decision symbol.
- Follow the Flowlines
- Move step by step along the flowlines.
- At each symbol:
- Execute the process (action).
- At a decision point, follow the correct branch (Yes/No).
- Track Variable Changes
- Keep a record (trace table) of variable values at each step.
- Update values whenever they are reassigned or modified.
- Reach the End
- Continue tracing until you arrive at the End symbol.
- Check you have accounted for all possible paths.
- Tracing flowcharts = Start → Follow flowlines → Track variables → Reach End.
- It helps ensure correct understanding of how data flows and results are produced.
