Lesson 1: INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING

Programming - is the process of taking an algorithm and encoding it into a notation, a programming
language, so that it can be executed by a computer. Although many programming languages and
many different types of computers exist, the important first step is the need to have the solution.
Without an algorithm there can be no program.

Algorithm - is a step by step method of solving a problem. It is commonly used for data processing,
calculation and other related computer and mathematical operations. An algorithm is also used to
manipulate data in various ways, such as inserting a new data item, searching for a particular item or
sorting an item. (particularly, in programs with databases)

Flowchart - is a diagram that depicts a process, system or computer algorithm. They are widely used
in multiple fields to document, study, plan, improve and communicate often complex processes in
clear, easy-to-understand diagrams.

BASIC FLOWCHART SYMBOLS

Symbol Name Function

signifies the start and end point

Terminator
of a flowchart

use to prepare and initialize

Preparation
data

Data inputs and outputs data

Process processes data

Decision does decision making

use to connect one part of a

On-Page Connector
Off-Page Connector
flowchart to another part
within the same page
use to connect one part of a
flowchart to another part on a
different page

indicates the direction in a

Flow Lines
flowchart
EXAMPLE:

Problem:
START
Create a flowchart that reads, computes
and displays the sum of data A and B.

Important Reminder: Read

1 – Analyze the problem carefully.
A, B;
2 – Remember keywords such as read, input,
prints, display, compute, compare, identify, etc.
3 – Pay attention on capitalization and use of variables.
4 – Make sure the flow lines are attached to every
part of the flowchart. sum = A + B;
5 – Do not forget to put semicolon (;) and
open/close quotation marks (“”).
6 – Always refer on the problem and do not
overthink.
Display
7 – Double check your flowchart.
A, b;

Keywords:
read/input – data STOP
print/display – data
compute – process
compare/identify – decision

ARITHMETIC OPERATORS USED IN FLOWCHARTING

Addition (+) – sum

Subtraction (-) – difference

Multiplication (*) – product

Division (/) – quotient

Modulo (%) – remainder

PRACTICE:

Problem 1:

Construct a flowchart that will convert an inputted number in Fahrenheit to its equivalent measure in
Celsius. Use variables C for Celsius and F for Fahrenheit.

References:
Miller, B., & Ranum, D. (2014). 1.4. What Is Programming? Retrieved June 26, 2019, from
https://interactivepython.org/runestone/static/pythonds/Introduction/WhatIsProgramming.html

What is an Algorithm? - Definition from Techopedia. (n.d.). Retrieved June 26, 2019, from
https://www.techopedia.com/definition/3739/algorithm

What is a Flowchart. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.lucidchart.com/pages/what-is-a-flowchart-tutorial