Flowchart symbols are standardized shapes that represent the steps of a process visually. Each one has a meaning, allowing you to clearly identify what type of action, decision, or event is happening. They are essential for adding clarity and universality to the diagram.
That’s why there are standard flowchart shapes and more advanced ones depending on what you need to present. In this guide you’ll discover not only the meaning of the symbols, but also when and how to apply them—from the most basic to the most advanced. This way, by the end you’ll be able to read and create flowcharts with confidence.
Basic Flowchart Symbols | |
Symbol | Main use |
Oval = Start/End | Marks the beginning or end of the process. |
Rectangle = Process | Represents a task or action. |
Diamond = Decision | Indicates a conditional point (yes/no). |
Parallelogram = Input/Output | Signals data that comes in or goes out. |
Arrow = Flow line | Connects symbols and marks the sequence. |
A flowchart’s structure is characterized by a set of symbols that make visual interpretation easier. Some are considered essential because they appear in most processes.
Below, we explain the basic flowchart symbols and when to use them:
These are the standard flowchart shapes—the ones you usually find in simpler designs. With just these five symbols, you can clearly represent each phase of a process.
However, there are other shapes that are also very useful when you need to create more complex flowcharts.
Just like in a concept map or a synoptic chart, diagrams can increase in complexity. In these cases, the basic shapes are not enough. That’s why there are other types of flowchart symbols.
These include:
To build clear and effective visual representations, it’s also useful to know the following shapes:
In complex projects, these shapes allow you to detail specific steps that enrich the diagram, providing greater precision when representing complete processes.
Even if you rely on tools to create flowcharts, you’re the one who must ensure the chart does its job. This includes applying certain rules and practices when representing processes, such as:
It’s important to follow an order in your flowchart—that is, the path should go from top to bottom. If you change direction, it should be from left to right, using arrows that mark continuity to avoid confusion.
Unlike a mind map, for example, there is a universal standard for symbols in this type of diagram.
This is the ISO flowchart symbol set defined by ANSI/ISO 5807:1985. This is what you should use to ensure anyone can interpret your design regardless of context.
However, some consider ISO/IEC 19510:2013 (BPMN 2.0) an alternative that goes beyond the classic flowchart, recognized in the business-process field with its own symbol set.
In very large diagrams or those with many elements, it’s easy to get lost. You can avoid this by adding a legend that explains the symbols used. Besides preventing ambiguity, you ensure quick understanding—even if the reader isn’t familiar with all the elements.
You already know the meaning of each symbol and the rules. Now we’ll explain how to apply them in order and with a clear method:
Define the goal of your diagram.
List every action, decision, and key data point.
Choose the right symbol for each part of the process.
Organize the path with arrows.
Add context only if it adds clarity.
Finish with a brief, useful legend.
Below, we describe each step:
1. Begin by summarizing in one sentence the process you will represent and what result you expect.
2. Describe the process in words before transforming it into symbols.
3. Assign each action, decision, or piece of data from the previous step to the corresponding symbol using standard symbols.
4. Connect from top to bottom and left to right, making sure there are no gaps.
5. Include notes, storage, or delays if they help to understand the process.
6. If you add intermediate or advanced symbols, add a legend with their meanings.
Following this sequence will help you build clearer, more consistent, and easier-to-interpret diagrams.
Flowchart symbols are the foundation for representing data clearly and universally. If you use them well, you can turn any process into a visual that’s easier to understand.
Of course, knowing the ISO flowchart symbol set is crucial for proper application—they aren’t just simple shapes. Each one represents an action and lets you understand the process without confusion for more efficient collaboration.
Mastering this symbol set is not only a technical matter, but a practical tool for working better—especially if you need to develop complex projects as a freelancer, student, or entrepreneur. Unless you need to plan tasks and deadlines in a simple way, in which case it’s better to opt for a Gantt chart.
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The oval symbol—also called the “terminator”—is the proper shape to represent the start or end of a process. Its use is standard and internationally recognized, ensuring understanding from the beginning to the closure of a process.
Yes, arrows are necessary to indicate the direction of the flow, even if in very simple diagrams it might seem obvious. Ideally, use them in every diagram—especially if the path changes direction or branches in several directions.
A legend is useful in extensive diagrams or when intermediate or custom symbols are included. It helps avoid confusion and ensures the reader interprets the flow correctly.
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