RAPTOR Subcharts

Table of Contents

RAPTOR Subcharts

Subcharts are groups of statements that can be called in the main flowchart. They help break a complex Raptor flowchart into logical sub-pieces to simplify design and ensure that the main flowchart is manageable. Subcharts and Procedures solve complex problems by separating statements into groups of commands. We can invoke the subcharts and procedures using the Call symbol. Programmer-defined subcharts and procedures appear as tabs in the workspace next to the main tab.

Subchart vs Procedure

A subchart transfers control, but we cannot pass parameters to it. Unlike a subchart, we can pass parameters to the procedure. A subchart can be added in both Novice and Intermediate modes, while the procedure is available in Intermediate mode only.

When the main flowchart encounters the Call symbol, the control is transferred to the subchart. The subchart steps are executed. After the execution, the control is transferred back to the main flowchart.

Creating a Subchart

By default, when you start a Raptor flowchart, you will see the main tab with Start and End symbols. To create a sub chart, right-click the main tab and select Add sub chart from the menu as shown.

Sub chart

In the dialog box, name the sub-chart. Based on its functionality, give a meaningful and crisp name to the sub-chart.

Enter the name of your sub-chart in the Name sub-chart dialog box. A new tab will be created automatically with the name you give. Now, you can begin to build your sub-chart.

Call symbol

The Call symbol is used to call sub-charts from the main flowchart. Once you have created your sub-chart, you can call the sub-chart with the Call symbol. Insert the call symbol where you want it in your main flowchart, and enter the name of the sub-chart that you want to be invoked.

When the flowchart runs, when the Call symbol is encountered, the control will transfer to the sub chart. After all the steps in the sub chart are executed, the control will be transferred to the next symbol after the Call symbol.