Definition

Noun: A flow chart is a diagram that uses standardized symbols and connecting lines to visually represent the sequence of steps, operations, or stages in a process, such as a computer algorithm or a business workflow.

Usage

A flow chart is used to document, analyze, design, or improve a process. It makes complex procedures easier to understand by showing the logical flow from start to finish, including decision points and different possible paths.

Examples

• The software engineer drew a flow chart to map out the program's decision logic before writing any code.
• To improve efficiency, the team created a flow chart of the current customer service procedure.
• The textbook includes a flow chart illustrating the steps of the scientific method.

Advanced Usage

• "to map out in a flow chart": To represent a process visually using this diagramming technique.
  • We need to map out the new hiring process in a flow chart for the training manual.
• "as depicted in the flow chart": As shown or illustrated by the diagram.
  • The approval path, as depicted in the flow chart, requires two signatures.

Variants and Related Words

• Flowchart (Noun): An alternative, single-word spelling of "flow chart".
• Flow diagram (Noun): A synonym often used interchangeably with "flow chart".
• Process map (Noun): A similar diagram used primarily in business to document workflows.

Synonyms

• Diagram
• Schematic
• Flow diagram

Related Idioms or Phrases

• To follow the flow chart: To proceed according to the steps outlined in the diagram.
  • If you're unsure what to do next, just follow the flow chart.

Noun

1. a diagram of the sequence of operations in a computer program or an accounting system