1.8 TYPES OF DESIGN TOOLS

1.8 TYPES OF DESIGN TOOLS

Design tools are the tools used to develop a program. Three types of design tools are algorithm, pseudocode and flowchart.

1.8.1 Algorithm

 A specific set of instructions for carrying out a procedure or solving a problem.  Usually with the requirement that the procedure terminate at some point.  Specific algorithms sometimes also go by the name method, procedure, or technique.  Step by step procedure designed to perform an operation, and which (like a map or flowchart) will lead to the sought result if followed correctly.  Algorithms have a definite beginning and a definite end, and a finite number of steps.

Below is an example of an algorithm and based on the problem statement.

PROBLEM STATEMENT Writeanalgorithmtoaddtwonumbersenteredbyuser.

Step 1 : Start Step 2 : Declare variables NUM1, NUM2 and TOTAL Step 3 : Read values NUM1 and NUM2 Step 4 : Add num1 and num2and assign the result to sum TOTAL = NUM1 + NUM2 Step 5 : Display TOTAL Step 6 : Stop

“Algorithm is not the computer code. Algorithm are just the instructions which gives clear idea to write the computer code”

1.8.2 Pseudocode

 Pseudo code is an abbreviated version of actual computer code.  When the pseudo code is completed it can be easily translated into any computer language.  Artificial and informal language  Helps programmer to plan algorithm  Not an actual programming language  Each line of code represents a step/process. Below is the example of pseudocode.

Figure 1.11: Example of the Program using Pseudocode

PROBLEM STATEMENT The pseudo code below is to find the volume of a box if thelength,widthandheightaregiven.Writetheprogram basedonthepseudocodebelow.

START INPUT length of the box INPUT width of the box INPUT height of the box Volume = Length XWidth X Height DISPLAY volume of the box END

1.8.3 Flowchart

 Graphic representation of algorithm is known as a flowchart which consists of geometric symbols.  The symbols are connected by a line of arrows called flow lines.  The shape of the symbol indicates the type of operation that is to occur.  Flow from the top of the page to the bottom.

Figure 1.12: Flowchart Symbol and Function

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Create a flowchart to add 2 numbers together and then displaytheresult.

Step 1 - Describe the input, output information and formula

Input : 2 numbers Process : Sum = A + B Output : Result sum of two numbers

2. Step 2 - Develop logical sequence of steps to solve problem

Figure 1.13: Flowchart of Problem Statement