In programming and systems analysis, what is the standard name of the diagram that illustrates the logical flow of functions and steps in a program?

Introduction / Context:
Before writing code, developers often represent logic visually to reason about control flow, decisions, loops, and data movement. The classic diagram that captures this logic with standardized symbols is widely used in education, documentation, and process design. The question checks recognition of that formal name and concept.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The diagram should convey program logic, not just a list of steps.
• Standardized symbols (start/end, process, decision, input/output, connectors) are assumed.
• The intent is clarity of logic independent of programming language syntax.

Concept / Approach:

A flowchart depicts the logical flow of a program using agreed symbols and directional arrows. It is more than a mere sequence; it encodes branching, iteration, and subprocess invocation. This structure helps identify unreachable code, missing branches, and erroneous loops before implementation, saving development time and reducing defects.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Software engineering texts and ISO/ANSI conventions define the flowchart as the diagrammatic representation of algorithmic logic. Other diagram types (e.g., data flow diagram, activity diagram) have different scopes or notations.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

'Sequence of steps' lacks formal symbols and is not a diagram type. 'Direction of flow' is a property, not a name. 'All of the above' is incorrect because only 'Flowchart' names the standardized diagram.

Common Pitfalls:

Mixing flowcharts with pseudocode or confusing them with data flow diagrams, which emphasize data movement rather than control decisions.

Final Answer:

Flowchart