Question

What do each of the following symbols mean in a flowchart? \(\bullet\) Oval \(\bullet\) Parallelogram \(\bullet\) Rectangle

Short answer

Answer: In a flowchart, an oval represents the start and end points of a process. A parallelogram symbolizes Input/Output operations, including data input such as user input or reading data from an external source, and data output, for example displaying information on a screen or writing data to an external source. The rectangle shape represents a process or an action being performed, typically tasks, or operations carried out within a system or program.

Step-by-step solution

Oval

In a flowchart, an oval shape represents the start and end points of the process. It usually contains the label "Start" or "Begin" for the starting point, and "End" or "Finish" for the ending point. It is used to indicate that the process within the flowchart either begins or finishes at that point.

Parallelogram

A parallelogram in a flowchart symbolizes Input/Output operations. These operations include data input, such as user input or reading data from an external source, and data output, which can be displaying information on a screen or writing data to an external source. The parallelogram is labeled with a description of the respective input or output operation that is taking place.

Rectangle

The rectangle shape in a flowchart represents a process or action being performed in the flowchart. These are typically tasks or operations that are carried out within a system or program. The rectangle will contain a brief description of the action or process being conducted at that step in the flowchart.

Key concepts

Flowchart Oval Symbol

When creating a flowchart, the use of the oval symbol marks the beginning and end of any procedure. Think of the oval as a welcoming sign (such as 'Start') that signifies the launch of a journey through a set of actions or decisions. Similarly, when you see the oval symbol labeled 'End', it is indication that you have reached the conclusion of the process.
This symbolic gatekeeper ensures that whoever reads the flowchart has a clear understanding of where they're starting from and where they'll wrap up. It's a hallmark of clarity in the delineation of process boundaries and is essential for maintaining the flow of steps in a logical manner.
Remember, the presence of the oval symbol is a signal to the user that they're either gearing up for action or winding down the procedure after all necessary tasks have been completed.

Flowchart Parallelogram Symbol

Diving deeper into flowchart literacy, we encounter the parallelogram symbol. Representing input/output operations, the parallelogram is your go-to shape when you want to illustrate the interaction with data. If your process includes getting information from a user (input) or displaying results (output), the parallelogram is there to encapsulate this action.

• Input: Imagine a user typing in their name on a registration form; the action of entering this data is captured by a parallelogram marked 'Enter Name'.
• Output: Consider a program that calculates and then displays a user's test score; you would represent this with another parallelogram labeled 'Display Score'.

By using the parallelogram, flowcharts visually cue readers into recognizing when data is moving in or out of the process. This helps in understanding how information flows through and interacts with the system, making it a staple for effective process documentation.

Flowchart Rectangle Symbol

At the heart of any flowchart is the rectangle symbol, a true workhorse that depicts the processes or actions taking place. Whenever an operation or task is underway, the rectangle is there to show what's happening.
For example, if a set of calculations needs to be performed, a rectangle containing the description 'Calculate Interest' paints a clear picture of this step in the flowchart. The rectangle helps to keep the flowchart organized, ensuring that anyone reading it can follow along and understand each action that forms part of the greater process.
Think of the rectangle as a signpost that guides you through the various functional stages of a process. It's a concise way to signify each pivot point where something is actively being done, enabling a streamlined interpretation of complex procedures.