A Level Computer Science OCR Practice Exam

In a flowchart, what does an oval signify?

1. A decision point in the process

2. A start or stop point in the process

3. A data input point in the process

4. A process step in the workflow

The correct answer is: A start or stop point in the process

In a flowchart, an oval signifies a start or stop point in the process. This shape, often referred to as the terminator, is crucial because it indicates where the flow of the process begins and ends, allowing readers to easily identify the boundaries of the workflow. Recognizing these points is essential for understanding the overall structure of the flowchart, as they frame the main process and highlight critical transitions. The other options represent different functions in a flowchart. A decision point is typically represented by a diamond shape, indicating a point where a branch occurs based on a yes/no question. A data input point is shown with a parallelogram, which signifies where data is received into the process. A process step is denoted by a rectangle, indicating a specific action or operation within the workflow. Understanding the symbolism behind these shapes helps effectively interpret and create flowcharts.