ALGORITHM

In mathematics and computer science, an algorithm is a step-by-step procedure for calculations. Algorithms are used for calculation, data processing, and automated reasoning. In simple words, an algorithm is simply a sequence of instructions written by a programmer to solve a problem. An algorithm may describe the operation of a system or a part of that system so that the complete solution to a problem can be described by a series of separate algorithms. Most algorithms are intended to be implemented as computer programs. However, algorithms are also implemented by other means, such as in a biological neural network (for example, the human brain implementing arithmetic or an insect looking for food), in an electrical circuit, or in a mechanical device. One of the simplest ways to describe a solution is by drawing a flowchart. Normally a flowchart is described as a diagram of the sequence of movements or actions of people or things involved in a complex system or activity. In computer science it is described as a graphical representation of a computer program in relation to its sequence of functions (as distinct from the data it processes). In other simple words a flowchart is a type of diagram that represents an algorithm or process, showing the steps as boxes of various kinds, and their order by connecting them with arrows. This diagrammatic representation can give a step-by-step solution to a given problem. Process operations are represented in these boxes, and arrows connecting them represent flow of control. Flowcharts are used in analyzing, designing, documenting or managing a process or program in various fields. An oval shape symbol is used to indicate start and stop, a diamond shape symbol when the person has to take a decision, to indicate a process a rectangle shaped symbol is used and to signify input and output a parallelogram shaped symbol is used. These few symbols are used in flowcharts and are the most common.