Flowchart refers to the graphical representation of an algorithm which provides the solution for a problem. It is used in various processes of software development including analyzing, designing, documenting and managing phases.

Example flowchart for factorial

A flowchart for factorial algorithm is shown below.

Various components/symbols in flowchart

  1. Terminator - Acts as begin and end point of processes.

  2. Process - Acts as begin and end point of processes.
    Flowchart-Process
  3. Decision - Checks for a condition and decides where to branch.
    flowchart decision
  4. Data input- Indicates input or output operations.
    flowchart-input-output
  5. Delay - Waiting for a certain period of time.
    flowchart-delay
  6. Predefined Process- refers to a subprocess that is formally defined.
    flowchart-predefined-process
  7. A document or report
    flowchart-document
  8. Multiple documents
    flowchart-multiple-documents
  9. Manual input
    flowchart-manual-input
  10. Database
    flowchart-database
  11. Connector - jump from one point to another
    flowchart-connector
  12. Callout - used to add comments
    flowchart-callout
  13. Flow line - shows flow of events
    flowchart-flow-line