Difference Between Algorithm And Flowchart - Explained!

Algorithms and flowcharts are both tools used in computer programming to help plan and visualize the steps needed to solve a problem. Essentially, algorithms and flowcharts are different methods of solving the same problem. However, the difference between an algorithm and flowchart is in how the information is relayed.

In simple words, we can say that a flowchart is nothing but a graphical representation of an algorithm.

What is an algorithm?

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an algorithm can be defined as “a procedure for solving a mathematical problem in a finite number of steps that frequently involves repetition of an operation.”

Input --> follow instructions --> output

Likewise in mathematics and computer science, an algorithm refers to a set of rules or instructions executed step-by-step to solve a problem. It is like a recipe that tells a computer what to do. We follow a certain algorithm to carry out all tasks in our daily life. A common example can be, making a sandwich.

An algorithm for making a sandwich can look like this:

• Step 1: Cook the bacon, ham, or whatever you like.

• Step 2: Slice your tomatoes.

• Step 3: Toast your bread.

• Step 4: Add your favorite flavor of cheese spread to the Bread.

• Step 5: Put it all together.

• Step 6: Grill the sandwich.

• Step 7: Eat and enjoy!

Similarly, we can write algorithms for all everyday tasks. However, we can also use algorithms to solve more complex mathematical problems and make a machine work for us. Algorithms are thus used for calculations, data processing, etc. From working with a calculator to artificially intelligent machines, algorithms form the backbone of every solution.

Why do we need an algorithm?

If you are an amateur in baking and somebody asks you to bake a birthday cake in an emergency situation, how will you begin? You’d probably google a nice cake recipe and read it carefully, gather the ingredients and follow everything step-by-step.

Similarly, programmers are required to write codes (step-by-step commands) for performing the mathematical operations that instruct the computer to perform a specific task. A computer program is only an algorithm that can be written in various programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc. according to different functionality purposes.

Advantages of algorithm

• Well-defined steps make it easy to understand.
• It uses a definite procedure that helps in clarity.
• It does not depend on any particular programming language. The same algorithm can be implemented using any programming language.
• Since every instruction follows a sequence, it makes it easier for the programmer to debug the code.
• Algorithms are easier to understand. Anybody without the knowledge of a particular language can understand the algorithm of any code which helps in easy communications related to problem-solving.
• By using an algorithm, a problem can be broken down into smaller chunks, making it an easier approach to a complex problem.

Disadvantages of algorithm

• More difficult to debug as compared to the flowchart as the steps are similar to writing the final code.
• Difficult to show branching and looping.
• It is time-consuming to write the Pseudocode for big problems.

Example:

1. START
2. Declare 3 integer variables a, b and c
3. Take three numbers as inputs
4. Declare an integer variable sum to store the sum of the 3 numbers
5. Add the 3 numbers and store the result in the variable sum
6. Print sum
7. END

Examples of some useful algorithms are - Kludgy algorithm, greedy algorithm, brute force algorithm, etc.

What is a flowchart?

A flowchart is a graphical representation of the workflow of an algorithm using various conventional figures and arrows.

Why do we need a flowchart?

1. To develop a visual representation of the logic of the program.
2. To determine the required constraints.
3. To plan a project.
4. A flowchart is a better way of communicating the logic of the program.
5. Using a flowchart makes the analysis more efficient.
6. Easy debugging and takes less effort in writing down logic (as it uses symbols).

Disadvantages of flowchart

1. More time-consuming (sometimes become confusing too).
2. Comparatively difficult to modify.
3. Inconvenient to draw flowcharts for bigger and more complex problems.

A flowchart helps us write an algorithm more efficiently and faster.

Example – Here is an example of a flowchart that describes the process of finding the average of three numbers.

Image Credits: Brainly

Fun Fact! The first known algorithm was written by Ada Lovelace in the 19th century for Charles Babbage's early mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine. Interestingly, flowcharts, which are now fundamental tools for visualizing algorithms, didn't become popular until the mid-20th century, significantly advancing how programmers design and communicate complex processes.

Difference between Algorithm and Flowchart

Let's take a look at the ways in which an algorithm differs from a flowchart: 

Algorithms and flowcharts have one and the same purpose - to serve programmers. However, for different types of problems, either one of these methods may be considered more convenient and handy. The purpose of using an algorithm or a flowchart is only to see a bigger picture of a complex problem keeping in view the technicalities.