What is a flowchart?

Learn how to create basic flowcharts using flowchart symbols, shapes, and notation in this tutorial. We also explain what a flowchart is and why to use one. Learn how to build a flowchart to simplify complex processes and communicate ideas faster. This tutorial covers common flowchart symbols—like terminators, processes, and decision diamonds—and provides five simple steps to create your own professional diagrams. Whether you are documenting business processes or planning system connections, we will show you how to use Lucidchart to visualize your work effectively. *Learn more* Ready to start diagramming? Create your free Lucidchart account today: https://lucid.app/ *Timestamps* 0:00 Introduction to flowcharts 0:26 What is a flowchart? 1:26 The value of visualizing instructions 2:56 Common flowchart symbols and meanings 5:02 Advanced flowchart symbols and swimlanes 6:29 Five steps to build a flowchart 7:33 Step 1: Define purpose and scope 7:53 Step 2: Identify and order tasks 8:29 Step 3: Format tasks by symbol 9:46 Step 4: Draw the chart and add flow 10:01 Step 5: Confirm and collaborate 10:34 Summary and recap *Recommended resources* Lucid Training Labs: https://training.lucid.co Lucidchart help center: https://lucidchart.zendesk.com/hc/en-us How to use swimlanes: https://www.lucidchart.com/pages/tutorial/swimlanes *Hashtags* #flowchart #lucidchart #visualcollaboration #productivity #workflow *About Lucid* Lucid Software is the leader in visual collaboration and work acceleration, helping teams turn ideas into reality. Its Visual Collaboration Suite (Lucidchart and Lucidspark) and airfocus, an AI-powered product management platform, help organizations streamline work, foster alignment, and drive business transformation. The most used work acceleration platform by the Fortune 500, Lucid is trusted by 100M+ users worldwide. 🔔 Subscribe for more tips and tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@lucid_software?sub_confirmation=1 *Connect with us* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucidsoftware   Twitter: https://x.com/lucidsoftware  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucidsoftware/# LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucidsoftware/