Introduction

A flowchart is one of the most powerful visual tools for representing an algorithm. It transforms a set of instructions into a diagram that anyone can follow — from technical experts to complete beginners.

Flowcharts use universal, standardized symbols recognized worldwide. Each symbol has a specific meaning, purpose, and visual shape. Learning these symbols is the first step toward drawing professional flowcharts that clearly communicate your logic.

Why Use Flowcharts?

Flowcharts offer many advantages that make them a preferred tool in programming, business, and engineering.

The 10 Standard Flowchart Symbols

Let's explore each of the 10 standard flowchart symbols in detail.

1. Terminator (Oval)

2. Input / Output (Parallelogram)

3. Process (Rectangle)

4. Decision (Diamond)

5. Flow Line (Arrow)

6. Connector (Circle)

7. Off-page Connector (Pentagon)

8. Predefined Process (Rectangle with Lines)

9. Document (Wavy Bottom)

10. Data Storage (Cylinder)

Quick Reference Table

Here's a quick summary of all 10 standard flowchart symbols.

Example — Find Largest of Two Numbers

Let's see how flowchart symbols come together in a complete example.

Flowchart Structure

Start (Oval)
   ↓
Input A, B (Parallelogram)
   ↓
Is A > B? (Diamond)
   ├── Yes → L = A (Rectangle)
   └── No  → L = B (Rectangle)
   ↓
Print L (Parallelogram)
   ↓
Stop (Oval)

Step-by-Step Explanation

More Flowchart Examples

Example 1: Check if a Number is Even or Odd

Start
   ↓
Input N
   ↓
Is N MOD 2 == 0?
   ├── Yes → Print "Even"
   └── No  → Print "Odd"
   ↓
Stop

Example 2: Calculate Area of Rectangle

Start
   ↓
Input L, B (Length, Breadth)
   ↓
AREA = L * B (Process)
   ↓
Print AREA
   ↓
Stop

Example 3: Sum of First N Natural Numbers

Start
   ↓
Input N
   ↓
SUM = 0, i = 1 (Process)
   ↓
Is i <= N? (Diamond)
   ├── Yes → SUM = SUM + i, i = i + 1 (Process) → back to Diamond
   └── No  → Print SUM
   ↓
Stop

Example 4: Check Voting Eligibility

Start
   ↓
Input age
   ↓
Is age >= 18? (Diamond)
   ├── Yes → Print "Eligible to Vote"
   └── No  → Print "Not Eligible"
   ↓
Stop

Rules for Drawing Flowcharts

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Popular Flowchart Tools

You can draw professional flowcharts using these tools.

Did You Know?

Real-World Applications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is a flowchart?

A flowchart is a graphical representation of an algorithm or process using standard symbols and arrows to show the flow of steps.

Q2. How many standard flowchart symbols are there?

There are 10 main standard symbols: Terminator, Input/Output, Process, Decision, Flow Line, Connector, Off-page Connector, Predefined Process, Document, and Data Storage.

Q3. What is the shape of the Terminator symbol?

The Terminator symbol is an oval (rounded rectangle). It marks the Start and Stop of a flowchart.

Q4. When should I use a Decision symbol?

Use a Decision symbol (diamond) whenever your algorithm needs to make a choice based on a condition — usually Yes/No or True/False.

Q5. What's the difference between Process and Predefined Process?

A Process represents any general operation or calculation. A Predefined Process represents a call to an existing subroutine, function, or module.

Q6. Can flowcharts be used for non-programming tasks?

Absolutely! Flowcharts are widely used in business processes, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and any field that involves step-by-step procedures.

Q7. What tool should I use to draw a flowchart?

Popular tools include Draw.io (free), Lucidchart, Microsoft Visio, Canva, and PowerPoint. Choose based on your needs and budget.

Q8. How do I connect parts of a flowchart across pages?

Use the Off-page Connector (pentagon). Label matching connectors with the same letter on both pages.

Q9. What's the purpose of the Flow Line (arrow)?

The Flow Line shows the direction of the algorithm's execution — connecting one symbol to the next.

Q10. Should flowcharts always flow top to bottom?

Generally, yes. Top-to-bottom or left-to-right flow is the standard convention. It makes the flowchart easier to read and follow.