Basic Rules for Drawing Flowcharts

📚 What is a Flowchart?

A flowchart is a diagram that uses symbols and arrows to represent a process or algorithm. It's a visual way to break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps. They are widely used in programming, business, and many other fields to document, plan, improve, and communicate processes.

📜 A Brief History of Flowcharts

The earliest structured method of documenting process flow, the "flow process chart", was introduced by Frank Gilbreth in 1921 to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. In the early 20th century, flowcharts slowly found their way into industrial engineering and later, computer programming.

🔑 Key Principles for Drawing Flowcharts

• 🟢 Start and End: Every flowchart should have a clear starting and ending point. Use the terminal symbol (oval) to indicate these.
• ➡️ Direction of Flow: Use arrows to show the direction of the process. Flowcharts generally flow from top to bottom or left to right.
• 🟦 Process Steps: Represent each step in the process with a rectangle. Write a brief description of the step inside the rectangle.
• 💎 Decisions: Use a diamond shape to represent decision points. Include a question inside the diamond and label the outgoing arrows with the possible answers (e.g., Yes/No, True/False).
• 💾 Input/Output: Use a parallelogram to represent input and output operations (e.g., reading data, displaying results).
• 🔗 Connectors: Use a circle (connector symbol) to link flowchart sections, especially when the flow extends to another page.
• 📝 Keep it Simple: Flowcharts are meant to clarify, not confuse. Use concise language and avoid unnecessary complexity.

💼 Real-World Examples

Software Development:

A flowchart can illustrate the steps involved in a software algorithm, from user input to output display.

Business Processes:

Companies use flowcharts to map out their sales process, customer service workflows, or manufacturing steps.

Everyday Life:

You can even use a flowchart to plan your morning routine or a recipe, breaking down each task into smaller actions.

📊 Common Flowchart Symbols and Their Meanings

Symbol	Name	Description
	Terminal	Indicates the start or end of the flowchart.
	Process	Represents a process, operation, or action step.
	Decision	Indicates a decision point with multiple possible outcomes.
	Input/Output	Represents input or output operations (e.g., reading data, displaying results).
	Connector	Used to connect parts of the flowchart, especially when it spans multiple pages.

💡 Tips for Creating Effective Flowcharts

• 🎨 Consistency: Use the same symbols and conventions throughout the flowchart.
• ✍️ Clarity: Write clear and concise descriptions within each symbol.
• 📏 Organization: Arrange the flowchart elements in a logical and easy-to-follow manner.
• ✔️ Testing: Test the flowchart by walking through it with someone unfamiliar with the process.

✅ Conclusion

Mastering the basic rules of flowcharting empowers you to visualize and understand complex processes effectively. By using the correct symbols, maintaining clarity, and following a logical flow, you can create flowcharts that are valuable tools for communication and problem-solving.