Key To Flowchart Shapes
Flowcharts use special shapes to represent different types of actions or steps in a process.
Key to flowchart shapes. The following is a basic overview with descriptions and meanings of the most common flowchart symbols also commonly called flowchart shapes flow diagram symbols or process mapping symbols depending upon what type of diagram you re creating the table below lists the flowchart symbol drawing the name of the flowchart symbol in microsoft office with aliases in parentheses and a short. You read a flowchart by following the lines with arrows from shape to shape. Here we ve got the four flowcharting symbols you ve got to know plus a rundown on some more intermediate process symbols if you re looking for extra credit. 4 basic flowchart symbols.
These shapes are formally agreed standards british standard. Numbering is helpful if you have to refer to a shape in a discussion. Numbering shapes is optional. Connect the flowchart shapes by holding the mouse pointer over the first shape and then clicking the small arrow that appears that points to the shape you want to connect to.
Lines and arrows show the sequence of the steps and the relationships among them. These are known as flowchart symbols. Flowcharts are usually drawn from top to bottom or left to right. Whether you re trying to read a flowchart or creating a flowchart knowing the most common symbols and flowchart conventions is going to make it a lot easier.
If the second shape is not directly across from the first shape click and hold the small arrow drag it to the second shape and drop the connector in the middle of the second shape. The lines with arrows determine the flow through the chart. Flow charts use a variety of standard flow chart symbols to represent different elements and arrows to show the flow or direction.