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Quizzes > Programming & Software

Flowchart quiz to practice symbols and logic

Quick flowchart test to check your process mapping skills. Instant feedback.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Ahmed MohamedUpdated Aug 27, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
paper art flowchart with cutout symbols arrows and shapes on golden yellow background

This flowchart quiz helps you practice symbols, connectors, and decisions so you can map processes with fewer errors. Answer quick questions, get instant feedback, and track the rules that trip you up. Want more? Try our flow chart quiz, build speed with the circuit symbols quiz, or stretch your logic in a graph fundamentals quiz.

Which symbol typically represents the start or end of a flowchart?
Oval
Diamond
Rectangle
Parallelogram
The oval, often called a terminator, is used to indicate where the process begins and ends. Using the same symbol for start and end makes the flowchart easy to follow. Decision points use diamonds, input/output use parallelograms, and processes use rectangles.
What symbol is used to denote a decision point in a flowchart?
Diamond
Parallelogram
Rectangle
Oval
The diamond shape represents a decision or branching point requiring a yes/no or true/false response. Each exit path from the diamond leads to different next steps. Using a diamond clearly indicates logic branching in a flowchart.
Which flowchart symbol represents a process or operation?
Rectangle
Oval
Cylinder
Diamond
A rectangle is the standard symbol for a process or operation in a flowchart. It indicates tasks or actions performed on data. Keeping processes in rectangles helps maintain consistency and readability.
Which symbol is used to represent input or output in a flowchart?
Parallelogram
Rectangle
Diamond
Oval
The parallelogram is used to denote input (e.g., user input) and output (e.g., printed reports). This shape differentiates I/O from processes and decisions. It helps users quickly identify where data enters or exits the system.
What does an arrow represent in a flowchart?
Decision point
Data storage
Document output
Flow of control
Arrows, also called flowlines, show the direction of control or sequencing between steps. They guide readers through the logical progression of the process. Without arrows, the order of operations would be unclear.
Which symbol indicates a predefined process or subroutine in a flowchart?
Standard rectangle
Parallelogram
Rectangle with double-stripes
Cylinder
A rectangle with double-stripes (or double vertical lines) signifies a predefined process, subroutine, or reusable module. It indicates that the detailed steps are defined elsewhere. This promotes modularity and simplifies large flowcharts.
Which symbol represents a manual operation performed by a person?
Diamond
Trapezoid
Parallelogram
Rectangle
The trapezoid (with one slanted side) indicates a manual operation, such as data entry or assembly. It distinguishes human tasks from automated processes (rectangles). Recognizing this shape helps clarify responsibility in the process.
What symbol indicates a connector to another point on the same page?
Diamond
Circle
Hexagon
Oval
A small circle, called an on-page connector, links lines to another point on the same page. It avoids crossing arrows and keeps the flowchart clean. Labeling connectors with letters or numbers ensures correct continuation.
What symbol is typically used to depict a database or data storage in a flowchart?
Rectangle
Diamond
Parallelogram
Cylinder
The cylindrical symbol represents stored data, such as a database or disk storage. It visually conveys long-term or mass storage distinct from temporary variables. This helps differentiate storage media from process steps.
What symbol indicates an off-page connector in a flowchart?
Cloud
Hexagon
Pentagon (home plate shape)
Circle
The pentagon or 'home plate' shape is used as an off-page connector, signaling continuation on a different page. It prevents overcrowding when a flowchart spans multiple sheets. Each connector should be labeled to match the corresponding continuation.
Which symbol would you use to represent a delay or waiting period in a flowchart?
Rectangle
Semicircle
Diamond
Parallelogram
A semicircle (or rounded shape) is the standard delay symbol, indicating a pause or waiting period in the process. It helps distinguish delays from active operations. Properly marking delays clarifies timing aspects for reviewers.
Which symbol represents manual data entry by a user (manual input)?
Cylinder
Diamond
Standard parallelogram
Rectangle with slanted top
Manual input uses a rectangle with a slanted top, signifying data keyed in by a person. It differentiates manual entry from automated input/output (parallelogram). Clarity on manual steps is important for auditing processes.
What is the purpose of a document symbol in a flowchart?
To represent a printed document
To show data storage
To denote start/end
To indicate a decision point
The document symbol, a rectangle with a wavy base, indicates a report or paper generated. It clarifies that the output is a physical or digital document. Using it helps distinguish documents from data storage or processes.
How is a loop created in a standard flowchart?
A loop symbol shaped like a circle
An arrow returning to an earlier step
A cloud shape
A trapezoid with double stripes
Flowchart loops are created by routing an arrow from a decision or process back to a prior step. There is no dedicated loop symbol in ANSI/ISO standards. This approach keeps the flowchart flexible and follows standard notation.
Which symbol represents multiple copies of a document in a flowchart?
Parallelogram
Stacked documents
Cylinder
Single wavy-base document
Stacked documents indicate that several copies or versions of a document are produced or used. Showing multiple pages differentiates it from a single document. This symbol helps communicate volume of output clearly.
What is a swimlane in flowcharting used for?
Representing decision logic
Showing delays or waits
Dividing processes by department or role
Denoting data storage areas
Swimlanes are horizontal or vertical bands that group process steps by function, department, or role. They clarify responsibilities and handoffs in cross-functional processes. This technique enhances readability for complex organizational workflows.
Which symbol represents a preparation step in a flowchart?
Hexagon
Parallelogram
Semicircle
Circle
A hexagon represents a preparation or initialization step, such as setting up variables or data structures. This specialized symbol distinguishes setup tasks from processing and decision steps. Standardizing this symbol promotes clarity in technical workflows.
Which symbol is used to denote an annotation or comment in a flowchart?
Pentagon
Cylinder
Bracket with dashed line
Cloud shape
Annotations use a bracket or comment symbol linked with a dashed line to provide explanatory notes. They do not affect flow but clarify steps or add context. Proper use of annotations improves documentation without cluttering the logic.
What is the recommended maximum number of symbols per flowchart page for clarity?
35
50
15
60
Keeping about 35 symbols per page helps maintain readability and reduces complexity. Overcrowding can confuse viewers and hide logical flow. If more steps are needed, break the chart into sub-processes or pages.
How do you indicate concurrent tasks or parallel processing in a traditional flowchart?
Use multiple diamonds
Use a cloud connector
Use a delay symbol between tasks
Use swimlanes or parallel bars
Traditional flowchart notation uses swimlanes or parallel bars to show tasks occurring simultaneously. This approach organizes parallel activities and assigns responsibility. It prevents ambiguity about process timing.
What is the recommended method for merging two decision paths back into a single flow?
Use a document symbol
Use a parallelogram
Use an on-page connector
Use a diamond again
An on-page connector (small circle) is used to merge separate branches back into a single path without cluttering the chart. Labeling connectors ensures you know which paths join. It simplifies complex decision structures.
Which practice is recommended to simplify complex flowcharts and reduce confusion with flowlines?
Use straight lines and right-angle turns
Allow diagonal arrow crossings
Use curved arrows only
Mix arrow styles freely
Best practice is to use straight flowlines with right-angle turns to keep the chart orderly. It prevents diagonal crossings that can confuse readers. Consistent line styles enhance readability.
How do ISO standardized flowchart symbols differ from ANSI standard symbols?
ISO removes the decision diamond entirely
ISO uses color coding while ANSI is monochrome
ISO includes additional specialized shapes and slight variations
ANSI requires thicker lines than ISO
The ISO standard (ISO 5807) adds some specialized symbols and defines slight shape differences from ANSI. Both sets are largely compatible, but ISO offers additional notation for complex processes. Understanding both allows global consistency.
How can cross-functional swimlane flowcharts improve process clarity?
They use colored arrows for emphasis
They reduce the number of decision points
They eliminate the need for documentation
They assign steps to specific roles or departments
Cross-functional swimlane charts divide the process into lanes for each role or department. This highlights handoffs and accountability clearly. It reduces confusion about who does what at each step.
Which symbol represents a subprocess or module call, and what is its main benefit?
Cylinder; it shows external data
Parallelogram; it displays output only
Circle; it indicates a loop
Rectangle with double-stripes; it promotes modularity and reuse
A rectangle with double-stripes denotes a subprocess or separate module called by the main flow. It supports modular design and makes large diagrams manageable by collapsing details. Reusing subprocess definitions reduces redundancy.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Recognize Standard Flowchart Symbols -

    Identify key symbols used in this flowchart quiz, such as process, decision, and input/output shapes, to read diagrams accurately.

  2. Apply Logical Flow in Flowchart Questions -

    Solve typical flowchart questions by sequencing steps and handling branches efficiently.

  3. Analyze Decision Paths in Flowchart Assessments -

    Interpret conditional flows in this flowchart assessment to distinguish correct pathways from common pitfalls.

  4. Distinguish Effective vs. Flawed Designs -

    Compare strong and weak flowchart designs to learn best practices and avoid frequent mistakes.

  5. Evaluate Process Efficiency Using Flowcharts -

    Assess workflows for bottlenecks and redundancies to optimize process designs during a flowchart test.

  6. Build Confidence for Flowchart Tests and Trivia -

    Strengthen your mastery and self-assurance to excel in any flowchart test or trivia challenge.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Essential Flowchart Symbols -

    Review the standard ISO 5807 symbols for processes, decisions, inputs/outputs, and terminators, as outlined by the University of Minnesota's technical writing lab. Mastery of these shapes is crucial before tackling any flowchart quiz or flowchart test. A handy mnemonic - "PIDT" (Process, Input/Output, Decision, Terminator) - helps you recall the four pillars.

  2. Logical Flow and Connector Use -

    Follow Microsoft Visio guidelines to ensure arrows flow top-to-bottom or left-to-right, reducing ambiguity in flowchart questions and assessments. Use on-page (circle) and off-page (home plate) connectors to avoid crossing lines, a tip often featured in flowchart trivia. Consistent direction and clear connectors uphold professional design standards.

  3. Clear Labeling and Annotation -

    According to Purdue University's Online Writing Lab, each arrow should have a concise verb or condition to describe the transition, which is often tested in a flowchart test scenario. Proper labels eliminate guesswork when reviewing flowchart questions or presenting to stakeholders. Aim for uniform text size and capitalization to maintain readability.

  4. Modular Design with Sub-Processes -

    IEEE research on process modeling recommends breaking complex workflows into named sub-processes to enhance clarity and reuse, a best practice in any flowchart assessment. Encapsulating tasks in smaller modules makes your diagram easier to modify and test in quiz environments. Use a "+" symbol on the sub-process block to indicate expandable detail.

  5. Validation and Peer Review -

    Conduct a peer-driven walkthrough or "whiteboard review" before formal submission, as suggested by Lucidchart's flowchart trivia sessions, to catch logic gaps early. Incorporate common flowchart questions as a self-checklist, such as verifying start/end points and decision outcomes. Iterative review ensures your diagram meets both academic and industry standards.

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