Flowchart Symbol Selector Calculator

Your expert tool for finding the correct flowchart symbol to use for processing calculations and other flowchart actions.

Find the Right Symbol

What is the flowchart symbol to use for processing calculations?

The correct flowchart symbol to use for processing calculations is the Rectangle. This shape, also known as the Process Symbol or Action Symbol, is the most common element in a flowchart. It represents any task, operation, or action that needs to be performed. This includes mathematical calculations, data manipulation, or any step that actively transforms input into an output.

For anyone creating a diagram of a workflow, understanding the universal meaning of shapes is critical. The rectangle universally signifies that work is being done. For example, if you are making a flowchart about a sales process, a step labeled “Calculate Sales Tax” would be placed inside a rectangle. This instantly communicates that a calculation is being performed at this stage. You can learn more about a how to draw flowcharts to improve your diagrams.

Flowchart Symbol Rules and Explanation

While the rectangle is key, a flowchart uses several other fundamental shapes to map a process clearly. The choice of symbol is not arbitrary; it follows established conventions that make flowcharts a universal language for process mapping. The primary goal is to provide a clear, visual representation of a process flow, and using the correct symbol is a major part of that. A flowchart for a decision tree generator, for instance, would heavily feature the diamond shape.

Table of Common Flowchart Symbols and Their Meanings

Variable (Symbol)	Meaning	Unit (Context)	Typical Range (Usage)
Rectangle	Process / Action	A single step or task	Calculations, data processing, operations
Diamond	Decision	A question to be answered	Branching points (Yes/No, True/False)
Oval / Pill	Terminator	The start or end of a process	Used only at the beginning and end
Parallelogram	Input / Output	Data entering or leaving the process	Getting user input, displaying results

Practical Examples

Example 1: Calculating an Order Total

Imagine a flowchart for an e-commerce checkout process. When it’s time to calculate the final price, the flowchart symbol to use for processing calculations comes into play.

• Input: Item Price, Quantity, Tax Rate, Shipping Cost
• Process Symbol (Rectangle): A rectangle labeled “Calculate Final Total” would contain the formula: (Item Price * Quantity) + (Tax Rate * Item Price * Quantity) + Shipping Cost.
• Result: The output from this step is the final total to be charged.

Example 2: Deciding on a Shipping Method

In the same checkout process, you might offer different shipping options based on the order weight. This requires a different symbol.

• Input: Total Order Weight
• Decision Symbol (Diamond): A diamond shape would contain the question “Is Weight > 5kg?”.
• Result: Two paths would emerge. The “Yes” path leads to a process for “Calculate Freight Shipping”, while the “No” path leads to a process for “Calculate Standard Shipping”. This shows how a flowchart decision symbol directs the flow based on a condition.

How to Use This Flowchart Symbol Calculator

This calculator is designed to help you quickly identify the correct symbol for any action in your process map. Here’s how to use it effectively:

1. Select the Action Type: Look at the dropdown menu labeled “What type of action do you want to represent?”. Read the options and choose the one that best describes your step. For example, if your step involves calculating a result, choose the “An action, task, or calculation” option.
2. View the Result: The calculator will instantly display the correct symbol, its official name, and a clear description of its purpose. This removes any guesswork.
3. Interpret the Results: Use the provided symbol and description to build your flowchart accurately. For instance, if the calculator shows the Rectangle for a process symbol flowchart, you know to use that shape for your action step.
4. Reset and Repeat: Click the “Reset” button to clear the selection and find the symbol for the next step in your flowchart.

Key Factors That Affect Symbol Choice

Choosing the right symbol is crucial for clarity. Here are six key factors that affect which flowchart symbol to use for processing calculations and other actions:

1. Nature of the Action: Is the step doing work (Process), asking a question (Decision), or just starting/ending (Terminator)? This is the most important factor.
2. Data Flow: Does the step involve data entering or leaving the process? If so, the Input/Output symbol (Parallelogram) is appropriate.
3. Process Complexity: If a step is very complex and detailed in its own separate flowchart, you can use the Predefined Process symbol (a rectangle with double vertical lines). This keeps your main flowchart clean. A guide on BPMN vs Flowcharts can help with complex diagrams.
4. Physical vs. Digital Output: If a process step results in a printed document, you should use the Document symbol, not the standard Process symbol.
5. Audience Knowledge: For a general audience, stick to the basic symbols (Process, Decision, Terminator, Input/Output). For a technical audience (like software engineers), more specific symbols like Internal Storage or Manual Input may be used.
6. Standardization: Adhering to ANSI/ISO standards ensures your flowchart is understood by the widest possible audience. The symbols in this calculator are based on these common standards.

FAQ about Flowchart Symbols

What is the main flowchart symbol to use for processing calculations?

The Rectangle is the main symbol for any process, action, or calculation. It’s the most frequently used symbol in any flowchart.

What’s the difference between a Process (Rectangle) and Input/Output (Parallelogram)?

A Process symbol (Rectangle) indicates an action that transforms data (e.g., ‘Calculate tax’). An Input/Output symbol (Parallelogram) indicates data entering or leaving the system without being changed (e.g., ‘Enter username’ or ‘Display results’).

When should I use a Diamond (Decision) symbol?

Use a Diamond when the process flow can go in multiple directions based on a condition. It must contain a question that can be answered with “Yes/No” or “True/False”.

Can I use other shapes in my flowchart?

While you can, it’s best to stick to standard symbols to ensure everyone can understand your diagram. Using non-standard shapes can cause confusion. For more advanced diagrams, see our page on UML diagram generators.

Is there a symbol for starting or stopping?

Yes, the Oval or Pill shape is the Terminator symbol, used exclusively for the “Start” and “End” points of a flowchart.

What if my process step is very complicated?

Use the Predefined Process symbol (a rectangle with double vertical sides). This signifies that the step is detailed in a separate flowchart. It helps keep your main diagram tidy.

How do I show data being entered by a user?

You would use the Parallelogram (Input/Output) symbol. Sometimes, a more specific Manual Input symbol (a rectangle with a sloped top side) is used in technical diagrams.

What is a terminator symbol in a flowchart?

The terminator is the oval shape that marks the very beginning (Start) and very end (End) of a process. Every flowchart must have one of each.