If you’ve ever looked at a flowchart and thought, “I recognize these shapes, but what do they actually mean?” Well, let’s just say, you’re not alone. Most people can spot the symbols, but aren’t always sure which ones matter or when to use them.
The good news: you don’t need to memorize dozens of shapes to understand or create a clear flowchart and tools like a flowchart maker or ready-made flowchart templates can make the process even easier.
This guide starts with the 5 basic flowchart symbols, then walks through other common ones, standards, and when to use each. You’ll get symbol meanings in plain English, a quick-reference chart, real examples, and clarity on which symbols are standard vs. optional so you can build or read flowcharts without second-guessing every shape.
What are flowchart symbols?
Flowchart symbols are standardized shapes used to represent different steps, actions, decisions and directions within a process. Each symbol has a specific meaning, which makes flowcharts easier to read and understand across teams, industries and software tools.
Because the symbols follow widely recognized conventions, flowcharts can simplify complex workflows, improve communication and help people quickly identify bottlenecks, dependencies or next steps in a process.
The 5 basic flowchart symbols
One reason why flowcharts are so popular is because they use standardized shapes that almost anyone can instantly recognize.
Here are the five most common shapes used in a flowchart.
1. Oval (terminator / start–end)
- Shape: Oval
- Meaning: Indicates where the process starts or ends
- When to use it: At the very beginning and end of your flowchart to define boundaries
- Best practice: Most simple flowcharts use one Start and one End to keep things clear
2. Rectangle (process)
- Shape: Rectangle
- Meaning: Represents a step or action in the process
- When to use it: Anytime a task, instruction, or operation needs to be completed
3. Arrow (flowline)
- Shape: Arrow (line with a direction)
- Meaning: Shows the direction of flow between steps
- When to use it: To connect symbols and guide the reader through the sequence
- Best practice: Keep flow direction consistent—usually top-to-bottom or left-to-right
4. Diamond (decision)
- Shape: Diamond
- Meaning: Represents a decision point with multiple possible outcomes
- When to use it: When a question or condition determines the next step
- Best practice: Label branches clearly, typically with Yes/No or True/False
5. Parallelogram (input/output)
- Shape: Parallelogram
- Meaning: Indicates data input or output
- When to use it: When information is received (input) or displayed/produced (output)
You can see most of these shapes in the following flowchart examples:
Related: Learn how to create a flowchart.
Flowchart symbols chart: shape, name, and meaning
Here’s a quick-reference chart you can scan when reading or building a flowchart. It covers the most commonly used symbols, their meanings, and when to use each.
| Symbol | Shape | Meaning | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminator | Oval | Start or end of a process | Marking where a flowchart begins or ends |
| Process | Rectangle | A step or action | Performing a task or instruction |
| Decision | Diamond | A branching point based on a condition | Yes/No or True/False decisions |
| Input/Output | Parallelogram | Data entering or leaving the process | User input or displaying results |
| Flowline | Arrow | Direction of flow | Connecting steps and showing sequence |
| Connector | Circle | Links steps on the same page | Avoiding long or crossing lines |
| Document | Rectangle with wavy bottom | A document or report | Generating or using documents |
| Database | Cylinder | Stored structured data | Interacting with databases |
| Predefined process | Rectangle with double vertical edges | A named sub-process | Referencing a reusable process or function |
Is there a standard set of flowchart symbols?
Yes, there are formal standards for flowchart symbols, most notably from ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and ISO 5807 (International Organization for Standardization). These standards define symbol shapes, names and usage to promote consistency across diagrams.
That said, most teams don’t strictly follow every rule. The core symbols—like terminator, process, decision and input/output—are widely recognized and used consistently, even in informal diagrams.
It’s also worth noting that symbol names and usage can vary slightly depending on the software, industry, or notation system you’re working with.
Other common flowchart symbols
Beyond the five basic symbols, there are many additional shapes used for more specific scenarios.
You don’t need all of these to create a simple flowchart as most of them are only useful in detailed, technical, or system-based diagrams.
Connector (commonly used)
The on-page connector symbol in a flowchart is a fancy way of referencing a circle.
This shape connects two or more separate paths within a flowchart without the need for long, intersecting lines that can make the flowchart difficult to follow.
Think of the circle as a connecting bridge.
Off-page connector (commonly used)
The off-page connector is a five-pointed polygon.
They’re usually seen in complex multi-page flowcharts to indicate that the process continues on a different page.
The off-page connector is typically accompanied by a reference point, such as a page number, section identifier, or a unique code to guide the reader to the exact location where the process continues.
Documents and data
Document (commonly used)
The document symbol looks like a rectangle with a wavy line below it.
Its design is intended to resemble a piece of paper which is also a hint of its function to indicate a point in the workflow where documentation is integral to the process.
The document symbol is particularly useful for administrative procedures, quality assurance protocols, or any process where record-keeping and documentation is key.
Multiple documents (less common)
The multiple documents symbol looks like a stack of papers which again hint to its purpose.
This symbol indicates that a step requires the handling, review, or generation of a collection of documents instead of just one.
It’s particularly useful in representing steps that require compiling of reports or processing of multiple forms.
Stored data (standards-dependent)
The stored data symbol appears as a curved piece of paper and is used in programming flowcharts.
It’s used to denote where data is stored outside of the immediate processing environment.
This symbol illustrates the interaction between the process and external data storage facilities, such as databases, file systems, or cloud storage services.
Database (commonly used)
The database symbol resembles a stack of cylinders and indicates the involvement of a database in the process.
This symbol in flowcharts showing data-intensive processes, such as querying information, updating records, or performing transactions within a database.
Internal storage (less common)
A rectangle with two lines going across its length and width is known as the internal storage symbol.
It’s used mainly in software design flowcharts and represents a specific type of data storage or memory that is internal to the system being described.
Display (less common)
The display symbol looks like the delay symbol merged with an isosceles triangle on one side.
This symbol shows where user interaction occurs within a system and is important in processes that require data to be presented to the user.
Hard disk (mostly used in programming/system flowcharts)
The hard disk symbol is essentially a cylinder lying on its curved side.
This symbol indicates when data is stored on a hard drive. It’s used to show points in a process where data is written to or read from a hard disk.
Manual and preparation symbols
Preparation (standards-dependent)
The preparation symbol is a six point polygon shape (some also refer to it as a rectangle with pointy bits).
The symbol is used to indicate a step where you need to gather resources or engage in specific tasks to ensure a smooth transition into a workflow.
The preparation symbol alerts users to the fact that certain conditions must be met before they can move forward.
Manual operation (less common)
The trapezoid, which has a longer top side, is used to denote a non-automated process that requires manual intervention or handling.
The trapezoid can help identify where human resources are needed and/or and where bottlenecks can occur due to manual operation.
Advanced/system symbols
Summoning junction (mostly used in programming/system flowcharts)
A circle divided into four slices, known as the summoning junction symbol, references a point in the flowchart where multiple branches converge into a single process.
You’ll see this symbol used in complex workflows where different sequences lead to a common action point.
The junction point can be used to indicate that a common path will follow regardless of the preceding steps before it.
Merge (commonly used)
The merge symbol is represented by a triangle and is used to combine two or more lists into a single flow.
The merge symbol is a way to communicate the coming together of multiple inputs or sequences.
The pointed end of the triangle faces the direction of the flow, so it’s a way to visualize where a merge happens and the unified process that follows.
Collate (mostly used in programming/system flowcharts)
The collate symbol is represented by an hourglass shape and indicates the gathering, arranging, or organizing of items in a specific order or sequence.
This symbol is useful in processes where information needs to be organized before it can be processed or analyzed.
Sort (mostly used in programming/system flowcharts)
A sort symbol is represented by two isosceles triangles joined together on the longest side.
This symbol is useful in processes where data or items need to be classified and ordered in a way that facilitates further actions or decisions.
For example, it could be used to represent the sorting of customer feedback into categories of priority or the organization of products by type before inventory.
Or (standards-dependent)
The Or symbol looks awfully similar to the summoning junctions symbol but don’t confuse them because they have different use cases.
For reference, the Or symbol is a circle with a “Plus sign” inside it rather than an “X.”
The Or symbol is used to denote a point in the process where a decision is made and the outcome of that decision dictates the next step in the process.
Loop limit (mostly used in programming/system flowcharts)
The loop limit symbol is represented as a rectangle with squared-off top edges.
The purpose of the loop limit symbol is to show where and when a looping action, which could otherwise continue indefinitely, should stop.
This symbol is commonly seen in flowcharts related to programming workflows.
Delay (commonly used)
The delay symbol has the appearance of an elongated semi-circle.
It’s used to mark points where delays or waiting periods are expected within a process
For example, in a manufacturing workflow, this symbol might indicate a cooling period required after a product has been heated.
Adding the length of delay in the symbol (if you know it) makes this symbol more useful.
Alternate process (less common)
The alternate process symbol looks like a rectangle with rounded corners.
It’s used to denote a step that deviates from the main process and represents an alternative method or pathway for accomplishing a task.
How to choose the right flowchart symbols
Choosing the right flowchart symbols comes down to keeping your diagram clear, readable and easy to follow. In most cases, you only need a small set of standard symbols to communicate a process effectively.
Here are a few simple guidelines to follow:
- Use the basic symbols first: Most flowcharts only require terminator, process, decision, input/output and flowline symbols.
- Match the symbol to the action: Use rectangles for actions, diamonds for decisions and parallelograms for data input or output.
- Keep your flow consistent: Most diagrams read top-to-bottom or left-to-right. Avoid arrows moving in too many directions.
- Use advanced symbols only when needed: Symbols like merge, collate or loop limit are usually reserved for technical or system-based flowcharts.
- Follow your team or industry standards: Some organizations use specific notation systems or software conventions, especially in engineering, software development or business process mapping.
- Prioritize clarity over complexity: A simpler flowchart with familiar symbols is usually easier to understand than a highly detailed diagram with uncommon notation.
If you’re unsure which symbols to use, start with the standard flowchart symbols first and only add specialized symbols when they improve clarity.
Flowchart vs. data flow diagram (DFD): what’s the difference?
While flowcharts and data flow diagrams (DFDs) can look similar, they serve different purposes. A flowchart focuses on the sequence of steps in a process, while a DFD focuses on how data moves through a system.
| Category | Flowchart | Data Flow Diagram (DFD) |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Visualize a process or workflow | Show how data moves through a system |
| What it shows | Steps, decisions, and process flow | Data inputs, outputs, storage, and transfers |
| Typical focus | Actions and sequence of operations | Movement and transformation of data |
| Common symbols | Process, decision, terminator, arrows | Processes, data stores, entities, data flows |
| Best use case | Explaining workflows or procedures | Mapping system architecture or information flow |
FAQ
What are the 6 elements of a flowchart?
The six basic elements of a flowchart are the terminator (start/end), process, decision, input/output, flowline (arrow), and connector symbols. Together, these elements show the sequence, direction and logic of a process.
How many symbols are commonly used in a flowchart?
Most flowcharts use between 5 and 10 common symbols. While there are many specialized flowchart symbols, the basic symbols are enough for most business, workflow and process diagrams.
Which symbol is used for processing?
The rectangle, also known as the process symbol, is used to represent a processing step, action or task in a flowchart.
What is the oval symbol in a flowchart?
The oval symbol, also called the terminator symbol, represents the start or end of a process in a flowchart.
Which symbol is used to input data in a flowchart?
The parallelogram symbol is used for input and output operations, including entering data or displaying results in a flowchart.
Does every flowchart need multiple start and stop symbols?
No, most simple flowcharts only use one Start symbol and one End symbol. Multiple start or stop symbols are usually reserved for more complex workflows.
What are 5 uses of a flowchart?
Flowcharts are commonly used to map processes, improve workflows, train teams, document systems and support decision-making by visually showing how steps and decisions connect.
Choose the right flowchart symbols with confidence
If flowchart symbols felt overwhelming at first, the key is to start with the basics. In most cases, a clear flowchart only needs the core symbols for start/end points, processes, decisions, input/output and flow direction.
Once those are in place, you can add connectors, document symbols, or data-related symbols only when they make the process easier to follow. While formal standards like ANSI and ISO provide guidance, practical clarity matters more for most everyday workflows.
The better you match each symbol to its purpose, the easier your flowchart becomes to read, share and improve across teams. Keep the quick-reference chart above nearby the next time you build a diagram or use an AI Flowchart Generator like Venngage’s if you want a faster way to turn ideas into a polished visual.
References
- ISO 5807 — International standard for documentation and flowchart symbols:
https://www.iso.org/standard/11955.html - American National Standards Institute — ANSI flowchart conventions and standards overview:
https://www.ansi.org/ - IBM Flowcharting Documentation — Technical reference for flowchart symbols and usage examples: https://www.ibm.com/docs/en/engineering-lifecycle-management-suite/design-rhapsody/10.0.1
