A Level Computer Science OCR Practice Exam

Which shape in a flowchart corresponds to a process?

1. Diamond

2. Circle

3. Box

4. Parallelogram

The correct answer is: Box

In flowchart design, the shape that indicates a process is a box. This rectangular shape is used to represent a step or an action in a sequence of operations. For example, it might denote tasks such as calculations, data manipulation, or function calls. The box serves as a clear visual cue, making it easy for viewers to identify where an operation occurs within the overall flow of the chart. This shape helps in breaking down complex workflows into manageable and understandable parts, allowing anyone reviewing the flowchart to grasp what processes are being carried out. Other shapes have different meanings in a flowchart: diamonds usually represent decision points where choices need to be made; circles link processes, often indicating the start or end of the flow; and parallelograms are typically used for input or output operations. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for interpreting flowcharts effectively.