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Difference between Algorithm and Flowchart
Let us look at the differences between an algorithm and a flowchart.
Algorithm Flowchart
It is a step-by-step textual approach to solve a It is a graphical representation of a algorithm.
problem.
It can be written in natural language, pseudocode, It uses standardised symbols and shapes.
or code.
Easily represents branching and looping through
Difficult to represent branching and looping.
symbols.
Errors can be identified through testing and Errors can be identified through review and
debugging. walkthroughs.
Can be used for simple, complex or long processes. Advisable to use only for simple processes.
Programming Language
A programming language is a formal language that specifies a set of instructions that can be used to produce
various kinds of output. It has its own vocabulary and set of grammatical rules for instructing a computer to
perform specific tasks.
For example, BASIC, Pascal, C, C++, Java, Haskell, Ruby, Python, etc. are some popular programming languages.
What is a computer program?
A computer program is a set of instructions written in any programming language that perform a specific task
when executed by a computer. These instructions are executed by the computer's processor to achieve the
desired output.
In this unit we will learn about Python as a programming language to write computer programs.
What is Python?
Python is a general-purpose, object-oriented, easy-to-learn and high-level programming language. Guido van
Rossum designed Python and released it in 1991. He wanted to give a unique name to it so he named it after
the famous BBC comedy TV show "Monty Python's Flying Circus".
Python as a language supports simple English-like statements, making it easy for programmers to learn and
maintain. This is one important reason for its popularity.
Important Features of Python
Python is a very popular programming language. Let us study some of its important features to find out the
reasons for its popularity:
• High-Level Language: Python is a high-level and general-purpose programming language which simplifies the
process of developing a program. The code written in Python is more close to human language and away from
machine language.
• Easy to Learn and Use: Python has simple, English-like statements that are easy to learn and use. Anyone can
easily get used to its syntax and have expertise in it.
Introduction to Python 221

