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Chapter 1. Algorithm Basics

Flowcharts and Their Symbols

A flowchart shows an algorithm as a diagram, so its structure is easy to see. We learn what the main shapes mean and draw a chart for a simple calculation.

Topic 2 of 111 min readUpdated October 27, 2026
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A flowchart is a picture of an algorithm. Each step is written inside a special shape, and the shapes are joined by arrows. The picture lets you see the overall structure of the algorithm at once.

Each shape has its own meaning. An oval marks the start and the end, a parallelogram stands for input or output, and a rectangle shows a calculation or another action. A condition to be checked is written inside a diamond, and an arrow points to the next step.

As an example, take the algorithm for finding the sum of two numbers. First the oval says “Start”, then a parallelogram reads the numbers a and b. Next a rectangle calculates s = a + b, another parallelogram prints s, and the chart ends with an oval saying “End”.

Flowcharts are usually drawn from top to bottom, and only the necessary arrows leave each shape. If you follow a finished chart arrow by arrow, you can find mistakes in advance.

Key takeaways

  • A flowchart is a graphical picture of an algorithm.
  • An oval marks the start and end; a parallelogram marks input and output.
  • A rectangle is a calculation or action; a diamond is a condition check.
  • Arrows show the order in which the steps are carried out.

Practice tasks

  1. Draw a flowchart for an algorithm that calculates the area of a rectangle with sides a and b using the formula s = a * b.
  2. Draw a flowchart of your way from leaving home to entering the classroom, using at least five shapes.
  3. Follow a classmate’s flowchart arrow by arrow and find any shape or arrow that is placed wrongly.

Review questions

Test yourself: think first, then reveal the answer.

  1. 1What does a diamond mean in a flowchart?
    A condition check: depending on the answer, the algorithm continues along different paths.
  2. 2Which shape marks the start and end of an algorithm?
    The oval.
  3. 3Why is it convenient to show an algorithm as a flowchart?
    The diagram shows the structure clearly, so it is easier to find mistakes and explain the algorithm to others.

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Informatika 6-sinf darsligi muqovasi
In the textbookInformatics — Grade 6