Represent algorithms with flowcharts
Use standard symbols and arrows to show sequence, decisions and subroutine calls.
Exam scope and assessment notes
This sequence follows Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0984, 2026–2028 syllabus Version 4. It covers subject content Topic 7 only. The separately published 2029–2031 syllabus is not mapped here. Practice is original, self-checked and does not award an official Cambridge grade. Full timed papers and human subject-teacher review remain outstanding. Cambridge states that 0984 has the same 2026–2028 subject content as 0478, with 9–1 grading. In June and November, Cambridge lists 0984 in Administrative zone 3 and for centres in Oman and the UAE. Confirm availability for your centre and exam series with Cambridge International. The separately published 2029–2031 syllabus changes to Python 3 only and removes pseudocode; this 2026–2028 route does not cover those changes.
Before you begin
- No programming language is required. Be comfortable with place value and multiplication; each lesson introduces the computer-science notation it uses.
Work on paper. Try each question before revealing help, and explain why your method works.
Quick readiness check
Which symbol marks the end of a flowchart?
What you will learn
- Use start and stop terminators
- Distinguish input/output, process and decision symbols
- Trace flow lines through both branches
Symbols make control flow visible
A flowchart uses arrows for control flow. A terminator marks Start or Stop; a process box shows an operation; an input/output parallelogram represents data entering or leaving; a decision diamond branches on a condition; and a subroutine symbol represents a call to a separate routine.
Apply and check the rule
Label decision exits, such as Yes and No, and ensure every reachable route leads to a valid next step or Stop. Flowcharts complement pseudocode by making sequence and branches visible.
Pause and explain
Which symbol represents a value being entered or displayed?
Worked example
Describe a flowchart that reads a mark and outputs Pass when it is at least 50.
Show the worked solution
- Start, then input Mark.
- Use a decision diamond for Mark >= 50.
- The Yes branch outputs Pass; the No branch outputs Not pass; both reach Stop.
Answer Start → input Mark → decision Mark >= 50? → output the matching result → Stop.
Try a topic test
Choose Easy, Normal or Difficult. Save your answers and open worked review after finishing.
Test this topic →From guided practice to a new situation
Write your answer and reasoning first. Use a hint only if you are stuck. The model solution is for self-checking; your written work is not automatically marked.
Select the correct symbol for each action: read a name, calculate total, check total > 100, call ValidateName.
Give me a hint
Classify data exchange, operation, branch and routine call.
Compare my reasoning
- Read name: input/output.
- Calculate total: process; check: decision.
- ValidateName: subroutine call.
Input/output; process; decision; subroutine.
Look for these in your work
- Four actions
- Four symbols matched
A decision diamond has one outgoing arrow. Explain why the flowchart is incomplete for a Yes/No condition.
Give me a hint
A condition can have two different outcomes.
Compare my reasoning
- The condition can evaluate True or False.
- Each outcome may require a different next step.
- Label and draw both outgoing routes.
It needs routes for both outcomes, normally labelled Yes and No or True and False.
Look for these in your work
- Two outcomes
- Separate routes
- Labels
Plan a flowchart for a login attempt that allows access only when both username and password are correct. Describe the branch structure.
Give me a hint
The second check should only grant access if the first succeeds.
Compare my reasoning
- Start and input credentials.
- Check username; a No branch displays an error and stops.
- If Yes, check password; Yes grants access, No displays an error, then stop.
Start → input credentials → username valid? → if No, error; if Yes, password valid? → grant access or show error → Stop.
Look for these in your work
- Inputs
- First decision
- Second decision
- All routes end
Common mistakes
- Leaving a decision branch unlabeled
- Drawing an operation in a decision diamond
What can you explain now?
Which flowchart symbol represents a condition with alternative routes?
Compare with the explanation
Decision diamond
A decision creates branches such as True/False or Yes/No.
After trying it yourself, choose your next review. This is your self-assessment.
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Make it stick
Name the standard flowchart symbols and the role each one plays.
If you needed the solution, close it and solve the problem again from a blank page. A correct answer is stronger when you can explain the reason for each step.