Problem Solving Methodologies

Introduction to Algorithms and Flowcharts

Problem Solving

Today, we use computers in every field for various purposes. But, we know that they cannot solve the problems all by themselves. Furthermore, we have to give step by step instructions to the computer for solving the problem. We can define problem-solving as a process of understanding the problem, finding solutions for the problem, and finally implementing the solution to it. We can design the solution before coding in the form of algorithms and flowcharts. Moreover, the identification of arithmetic and logical operations is very important in developing the program.

Therefore, we can say that a successful problem-solving process depends on the following factors:

  • understanding the problem and defining it precisely.
  • designing proper algorithms and flowcharts of the solution.
  • implementing the algorithm successfully.

When the problems are easy we can easily search out a solution. Whereas, complex problems require step by step process to solve. Hence, this means that we have to apply problem-solving techniques to solve the problem. Furthermore, this starts with finding a precise definition of the problem and ends with a successful solution. Moreover, the identification of arithmetic and logical operations plays a vital role while designing the algorithm. Here, we will study the algorithms and flowcharts.

Designing the solution

After understanding the relationship between input and output and the functionalities required we have to design an algorithm or flowchart. Furthermore, the algorithm should contain all the necessary functions to solve the problem. Moreover, it should produce a proper output for every input.

Hence, we can say that before writing the exact code for the problem it is necessary to define a solution. We can do this by starting with an initial plan and improvising it till it gives perfect results. Moreover, there can be more than one possible solution for a problem. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the programmer to choose the best solution.

While designing a problem we can represent it in algorithms and flowcharts. Hence, before writing the program code we can design the solution either in the form of an algorithm or a flowchart.

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Introduction to Algorithms

An algorithm is basically a procedure of steps that we exactly follow to solve a particular task or problem. We can say that it is a set of rules that we need to follow while developing a program code during problem-solving. Furthermore, if we write an algorithm before actually writing a code, it becomes easy to perform the coding part. Moreover, the algorithm is in simple English language hence, others can also easily understand it and develop the code.

Features of an algorithm

The features of an algorithm are as follows:

Clarity

The algorithm should be very clear and unambiguous in its meaning. It should be simple so that one can understand it easily.

Well-defined inputs

A program may require to take input from the user. Therefore, the algorithm should clearly define the inputs.

Well-defined outputs

The algorithm should clearly specify the output that the program will produce.

Finiteness

The algorithm should have a termination point. This means that the algorithm should not be such that it runs infinite times or end up in loops.

Feasibility

The algorithm should be such that we can implement it easily. Hence, it should be simple and practical to implement.

Language independent

It should be in simple English language. Since the code implementation should result in the same output no matter which programming language we use while writing the code.

Introduction to Flowcharts

It is basically a diagrammatic representation of an algorithm. Furthermore, it uses various symbols and arrows to describe the beginning, ending, and flow of the program. Moreover, the programmers use it to depicting the flow of data and instructions while problem-solving. Flowcharting is the process of drawing a flowchart for an algorithm.

Symbols in a flowchart

The flowchart uses various symbols in the representation. These basic symbols are as follows:

Terminal

It represents the start, stop, or halt in a program’s flow. The flowchart always starts and ends with this symbol. Besides, we represent it using an oval shape.

Input/Output

We represent it using a parallelogram. It indicates any input from the user or output of the program.

Processing

We represent it using a rectangle. It indicates any arithmetic operation’s processing such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, etc.

Decision

We represent it using the diamond symbol. It represents any type of decision in a program that results in true or false. For example. if-conditions.

Connectors

We represent it using a circle. Whenever a flowchart is too large we can use connectors to avoid confusion.

Flow lines

These are basically arrows that represent the flow of the program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the main steps in problem-solving?

A1. A successful problem-solving process depends on the following factors:

  • understanding the problem.
  • designing proper algorithms and flowcharts.
  • implementing the algorithm.

Q2. What is problem-solving?

A2. We can define problem-solving as a process of understanding the problem, finding solution for the problem, and finally implementing the solution to it.

Q3. What is an algorithm?

A3. An algorithm is basically a procedure of steps that we exactly follow to solve a particular task or problem.

Q4. What is a flowchart?

A4. It is basically a diagrammatic representation of an algorithm. Furthermore, it uses various symbols and arrows to describe the beginning, ending, and flow of the program.

Q5. Name the features of an algorithm.

A5. The features of an algorithm are as follows:

  • Clarity
  • Well-defined inputs
  • Well-defined outputs
  • Finiteness
  • Feasibility
  • Language independent
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