
Flowchart  
A simple flowchart representing a process for dealing with a non-functioning lamp. 
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A flowchart is a type of diagram that represents a procedure, showing the steps 
as boxes of various kinds, and their order by connecting these with arrows. This 
diagrammatic representation can give a step-by-step solution to a given problem. 
Process operations are represented in these boxes, and arrows connecting them 
represent flow of control. They are implied by the sequencing of operations. 
Flowcharts are used in analyzing, designing, documenting or managing a process or 
program in various fields. 
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Common Flowchart Symbols 
Different flow chart symbols have different meanings. The most common flow chart 
symbols are: 
  Terminator: An oval flow chart shape indicating the start or end of the 
process. 
  Process: A rectangular flow chart shape indicating a normal process flow 
step. 
  Decision: A diamond flow chart shape indication a branch in the process 
flow. 
  Connector: A small, labeled, circular flow chart shape used to indicate a 
jump in the process flow. (Shown as the circle with the letter “A”, below.) 
  Data: A parallelogram that indicates data input or output (I/O) for a 
process.