1. Flow Charts

2. Introduction
A flowchart is a type of diagram that represents an algorithm or process.
Shows the steps as boxes of various kinds, and their order with connecting arrows.
Flowcharts are used in analyzing, designing, documenting or managing a process or program in various fields.

3. The Beginning And The End
The start of a process is depicted by the following box type In PPT, this box is under Shape->Flow Chart->Terminator
The end of a process is depicted by the following box type In PPT, this box is under Shape->Flow Chart->Terminator
Note the same box shape is used for both start and stop.
Start
Stop

4. The Steps That Make The Process
Each step of a process is depicted by the following box type In PPT, this box is under Shape->Flow Chart->Process
All boxes are connected by arrows to show the process flow In PPT, the arrow is under Shape->Lines->Arrow
A Step
Start
Step 1
Step 2
Stop

5. A Sample Process Start MATH 0099
The Georgia Gwinnett College Math Sequence for Freshman through College Algebra
MATH 1111
Stop

6. Decisions
In many situations a process may proceed with different steps depending on a question or decision.
A decision in a process is depicted by the following box type In PPT, this box is under Shape->Flow Chart->Decision
Each decision creates a branch allowing the process to continue in one of two different paths.
Is … ?
Path 1
Path 2

7. A Sample Decision Start Is compass score above 36? Yes No MATH 0099
The Compass Algebra Test may allow students to skip a math class.
MATH 1111
Stop

8. Loops
In many situations a process needs to repeat certain steps multiple times. This is called a loop.
A decision is used to select when the loop should happen In PPT, the arrow with elbows is under Shape->Lines->Elbow Arrow Connector
Step
Repeat?
Yes No

9. A Sample Loop Start Is compass score above 36? Yes No MATH 0099
Most students will need a “C” or better to complete the GGC Freshman Math Sequence.
MATH 1111 No
Is grade “C” or better?
Yes
Stop

10. Review of Symbols Start Symbol: 1 arrow out Stop Symbol: 0 arrows out
Step Symbol: 1 arrow out
Decision Symbol: 2 arrows out
Start
Stop
Step
Question? No
Yes

11. Blackjack Exercise
The card game “Blackjack” requires the dealer to follow very specific rules for dealing cards to himself. He must deal one card face down, and then deal face up cards until his hand has a total score greater than 16. If his final score is greater than 21, then the dealer “busts”, else the dealer “stands”. Either way, his deal is complete.
Create a flow chart on the right hand side depicting the “dealer” process described above. Note, for this exercise, you do not need to know how a total score is calculated, simply include a step called “calculate score”.

12. Blackjack Solution Remove from Student Copy
Start
Deal Face Down Card
Blackjack Solution Remove from Student Copy
Deal Face Up Card
Calculate Score No
Is score greater than 16
Yes
Is score greater than 21
Yes No
BUST
STAND
Stop