Flow chart symbols - SS2 ICT Lesson Note

Flowchart symbols are graphical representations used in flowcharts to visually depict the steps, processes, decisions, and data flow in a system, algorithm, or process. These symbols help in creating a clear and standardized visual representation of a workflow or a sequence of actions. Here are some common flowchart symbols and their meanings:

Start/End Symbol:

Represents the beginning or end of a process.
Typically labeled as "Start" or "End."

Source:(edrawsoft.com)

Process Symbol:

Represents a specific action or operation.
Usually depicted as a rectangle with rounded corners.
Contains a brief description of the action.

Source:(zenflowchart.com)

Decision Symbol:

Indicates a decision point or branching in the process flow.
Usually depicted as a diamond shape.
Contains a question or condition.
Arrows leaving the decision symbol represent possible outcomes based on the condition.

Source:(zenflowchart.com)

Input/Output Symbol:

Represents data input or output, such as reading data from a user or displaying information.
Depicted as a parallelogram.
Contains a label describing the input or output operation.

Source:(byjus.com)

Connector Symbol:

Connects different parts of a flowchart when the process flow is too complex to fit on one page.
Shown as a small circle or dot.
Contains a reference or label indicating where the flow continues.

Source:(smartdraw.com)

Terminator Symbol:

Represents a process termination point.
Used when a process flowchart is too complex to show the complete end of the process.
Shown as a rectangle with a wavy or jagged bottom line.

Source:(zenflowchart.com)

Predefined Process Symbol:

Represents a sub-process or a process step that is defined separately.
Displayed as a rectangle with double vertical lines on the left side.

Source:(zenflowchart.com)

Delay Symbol:

Indicates a delay or pause in the process.
Depicted as a half-circle or wave-like symbol.

Source:(lucidchart.com)

Document Symbol:

Represents the creation or use of a document or report.
Shown as a rectangle with a curved bottom.

Source:(smartdraw.com)

Database Symbol:

Represents a data storage location, such as a database or data repository.
Depicted as a cylinder.

Source:(edrawsoft.com)

On-Page Connector Symbol:

Connects multiple points on the same page of a flowchart.
Displayed as a small circle with a letter or number to indicate the connection point.

Source:(tutorialspoint.com)

Off-Page Connector Symbol:

Connects to another page or sheet when the process flow continues on a different page.
Shown as a rectangle with a double vertical line on one side and a label indicating the page or location to connect to.

Source:(zenflowchart.com)

These are the most commonly used flowchart symbols, but there are variations and additional symbols used for specific purposes in specialized flowcharts. Creating a clear and well-structured flowchart using these symbols can help communicate processes and workflows effectively