Flowchart symbols are universally used to describe steps and choices in a process. Plotted in a structure, they help viewers understand workflows. Getting to know these shapes can help you with communication and problem-solving guides. However, it is natural to get puzzled by the wide array of shapes, especially when you are new.
Remember, you don’t have to master every flowchart symbol. Most charts only require a few common shapes, and I have listed them down along with advanced, more technical symbols. This flowchart symbol guide also gives you insight into how to use them effectively for better readability.
In this article
Part 1: Flowchart Symbols Analysis
1. Common flowchart symbols
Display symbol
Display symbol in process flows denotes where information is displayed for the user. It is always helpful in mapping the user interactions within the system.
Comment/note symbol
The note symbol usually offers an additional explanation about a step in a process flow. You will typically find it connected with a dash line.
Decision symbol
The diamond shape in a flowchart represents a question. It usually addresses yes/no and true/false statements. Following this symbol, you will always observe the step split into different branches depending on the answer.
Arrow symbol
Popularly known as the flowline symbol, the arrow shape shows the process direction. It usually connects processes, inputs/outputs, and decisions.
Terminator symbol
The terminator symbol refers to the start or end of a flowchart. The shape often contains the words Start or End for the reader’s understanding.
Process symbol
The process or action shape is the most common flowchart symbol. This rectangle may illustrate a process, function, or action.
Alternate process symbol
As the name suggests, this symbol shows an alternate route to the ongoing process. It directs flowlines to an alternative pathway for task completion.
Predefined process symbol
A predefined symbol indicates a process defined somewhere else in the flowchart.
Loop limit symbol
A rectangle with top squared-off edges is a loop limit symbol in a flowchart. It shows a step where a loop should stop. Mostly, programmers use this shape to describe relevant workflows.
Preparation symbol
The preparation symbol is a polygon shape or a rectangle with pointy edges. It indicates a step where you gather resources for a specific task to ensure a smooth workflow transition. People use the preparation shape to introduce a setup to another step in the process.
Manual operation symbol
In a flowchart, a trapezoid with one longer side represents manual operations. It refers to non-automated processes where you will need human resources. This shape also identifies instances where bottlenecks may occur in workflow.
Or symbol
The or symbol indicates a point where the decision is made. It also shows that the outcome of the decision will dictate the next step.
Summoning junction symbol
Don’t confuse summoning junction with or symbol, as both look familiar. This shape references a point where multiple sequences converge into a single path. Simply put, it sums the inputs to a unified path.
2. Document symbols
Document symbol
A document symbol is a rectangular figure with a wavy line at the bottom. It shows a step in workflow where documentation is significant in the process. Typically, you will use it for administrative processes, record-keeping, and quality assurance procedures in flowcharts.
Multiple document symbol
Likewise, the multiple document symbols show a stack of papers. It represents a collection of documents, their reviews, handling, and generation. In flowcharts, this symbol defines steps that require report compiling and processing.
3. Data symbols
Data storage symbol
The data storage symbol is a curved paper. It denotes where the data is stored within the process. Common in programming flowcharts, it illustrates the interaction between storage facilities and the process.
Internal storage
A rectangle with two lines across its length and width is widely used to draw software designs. The shape indicates data in an internal memory.
Database symbol
The cylindrical database symbol indicates a list of information in a structured storage facility. It allows for searching data, filtering it, updating records, and making transactions.
Paper tape symbol
The paper tape is an outdated flowchart symbol. Rarely used now, it was once popular for mapping inputs in older computers.
4. Input/output symbols
Manual input symbol
This symbol represents the data in a field entered manually using a keyboard. An example can be a step where the user manually enters his/ her login credentials in the system.
Input/output symbol
A parallelogram is a common flowchart symbol that illustrates both the input and output processes. For instance, it can be used to enter data into a system or make a transaction. People usually add labels and arrows to differentiate between the two processes.
Delay symbol
A delay symbol in a flowchart is an elongated semi-circle. It refers to waiting periods and delays in a process. The symbol also helps denote the exact length of the delay in a process.
5. Merging and connecting symbols
Off-page connector symbol
The off-page connector identifies that the step continues on a different page. It is used in complex flowcharts, and the page number is usually placed within the shape.
On-page connector symbol
The on-page circle symbol is a connecting bridge. It joins multiple separate paths across one page in a flowchart. It replaces the long intersecting lines that make your flowchart difficult to understand.
Merge symbol
A triangle in a flowchart shows the merging of multiple paths and inputs into one. The tip of the merge symbol shows the workflow direction.
Importance of Flowchart Symbols
Knowing about symbols and using them correctly are two opposite things. You must know how to use shapes effectively in flowcharts to maintain readability and accuracy. These are my top best practices for optimized process flows.
- Much like the evolution of flowcharts, symbols have also become flexible over time. This confuses first-time designers about which shapes to use. Ideally, you should stick to universally accepted symbols. Over time, consistently using the standard symbols improves the flowchart readability and helps you with muscle memory.
- Don’t undermine labeling. Dual-purpose symbols like the terminator, decision, and input/ output references puzzle the readers when not directed properly. So, clearly label each symbol but use easy-to-read text. Avoid jargon and long descriptions!
- Take time to maintain a logical flow of the process. Focus extra on symbols and text alignment. Use flowlines and arrows for a tidy and clear visual appearance.
- Visuals can transform your workflow significantly. So, use colors strategically to categorize different actions and steps. Avoid overpowering pallets that may distract the reader.
- Don’t go for miniature symbols; resize them according to the image proportions. A small flowchart can make the font blurry and steps unclear.
Now, the question is, how to keep a check on all this? I recommend switching to a digitally advanced flowchart symbol software like EdrawMax. This tool features vector-enabled resizable flowchart symbols and design elements, including different themes and color pallets. Plus, it has a revision history that keeps a record of all process updates over time.
FAQs about Flowchart Symbols
FAQ
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What are the eight basic symbols of flowcharts?
If you are new to flowchart diagrams, it is better to stick to the most commonly used symbols. These shapes include a rectangle, diamond, circle, triangle, parallelogram, hexagon, and trapezoid. -
How do you organize a flowchart?
The first condition for flowchart arrangement is mapping the right symbols. The best practice is using digital flowchart makers with sufficient symbols and visual assistance. Not sure where to start? Head over to the EdrawMax template community to get help from pre-made flowchart examples. -
What are lines called in a flowchart?
Lines in flowcharts are referred to as connectors or flowlines. They usually illustrate relationships between steps and processes. -
How many flowchart symbols are there?
There is no exact number of flowchart symbols. Some sites claim there are four basic icons whereas others believe there are five or eight. Well, the number doesn’t matter, you just have to learn some commonly used to make accurate flowcharts.
Conclusion
Don’t be intimidated by the flowchart symbols and try to learn their context. Use this flowchart symbol key to start with basic symbols and make your way to specific technical shapes. I would suggest using EdrawMax flowchart maker. Head over to the template community, find an easy-to-customize chart, and reformat it. Add and resize symbols and use colors to categorize steps.
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