What is a Process Flowchart?

A process flowchart is a type of diagram that visually represents a sequence of activities to achieve a particular result or outcome.

Let's think of a process flowchart like instructions for a board game. Each step, or instruction, is represented by a symbol, and arrows connect the steps to show the order in which they happen. This is a simple, visual way of understanding what needs to be done and in what order to reach the goal.

Here are the basic symbols typically used in a process flowchart:

• Oval or Rounded Rectangle: These shapes usually represent the start or end of a process.
• Rectangle: This shows a task or action step in the process.
• Diamond: This represents a decision point, where a question is asked that has a 'Yes' or 'No' answer, each leading to different parts of the process.
• Arrows: These are used to show the direction of the process flow or the sequence of steps.
• Parallelogram: This shows inputs or outputs in the process. For example, materials needed or results produced.
• Circle: This is often used to show a point of connection to another part of the process or even a different process.

So if you were making a process flowchart for building a model airplane, you might start with an oval labeled "Start", then an arrow to a rectangle labeled "Open model airplane kit", then an arrow to another rectangle labeled "Sort pieces by type", and so on, until you get to an oval labeled "End" or "Airplane Completed".

Flowcharts are a great way to show a step-by-step process, and they're used in many different fields, from business and software development to cooking and crafting.