4 Most Common Flowchart Symbols

Top 4 Flowchart Symbols in Use

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Although there are many flowchart symbols that can be used, there are 4 main symbols that are most important. In fact, you really need only these 4 in most cases:

1. Process Symbol:

Process - Flowchart Symbol

Process

Process Symbol represents a step in a process. This is the most common component of a flowchart.4

2. Terminal Symbol:

Terminal - Flowchart Symbol

Terminal

Terminal Symbol indicates the beginning or end of a flowchart. This symbol usually has the text “Start” or “End”.

3. Flowline Symbol:

Flowline Flowchart Symbol

Flowline

Flow lines indicate the process’ direction. Each flowline usually connects two blocks. Flowlines can be straight lines, uni-directional arrow, or both-sided arrows, representing different kinds of connections between the steps.

4. Decision Symbol:

Decision Flowchart Symbol

Decision

Decision Symbol indicates a step that decides the next step in a process. This is commonly a Yes/No or True/False question.