the research process flowchart

Research process flowchart

The research process flowchart outlines the steps involved in conducting a research study. The first step is to define the research problem and develop  research questions  that are clear, concise, and relevant to the field of study.

After developing the research questions, the next step is to conduct a  literature review  to identify any gaps in knowledge and provide a foundation for the study. The next step is to formulate  research hypotheses  that predict the relationship between the independent and dependent variables in the study.

Once the research hypotheses have been developed, the next step is to select an appropriate research design that can test the hypotheses and provide a clear answer to the research questions. The  research design  should be based on the research question and should be able to provide a rigorous and effective study.

The next steps in the  research process flowchart  are to collect and analyze data using appropriate  statistical methods , interpret the results, and draw conclusions. The results should be interpreted in light of the  research question  and hypotheses, and any limitations and implications of the study should be discussed.

Finally, the findings should be communicated to the appropriate audience in a clear and concise manner. By following this research process flowchart, researchers can conduct a rigorous and effective research study that contributes to the field of study and advances knowledge in their area of interest.

Advantages of creating this flowchart

First, it helps to ensure that all necessary steps are taken and that the research study is conducted in a consistent and standardized manner . By outlining the steps involved in the research process, researchers can ensure that the study is conducted in a rigorous and effective manner, and that all necessary steps are taken. This can help to improve the quality of the study and increase the chances of achieving successful outcomes.

Second, creating a  research process flowchart  can help to improve efficiency and reduce the time and cost involved in conducting a research study. By following a structured and standardized approach, researchers can streamline the process and reduce the time and effort required to conduct a research study. This can help to reduce costs for research teams and increase the overall effectiveness of the study.

Overall, creating a research process flowchart is an important step for ensuring that research studies are conducted in a consistent, efficient, and effective manner . By following the flowchart, researchers can conduct a rigorous and effective research study, improve efficiency, and achieve successful outcomes.

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Home » Research Process – Steps, Examples and Tips

Research Process – Steps, Examples and Tips

Table of Contents

Research Process

Definition:

Research Process is a systematic and structured approach that involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data or information to answer a specific research question or solve a particular problem.

Research Process Steps

Research Process Steps are as follows:

Identify the Research Question or Problem

This is the first step in the research process. It involves identifying a problem or question that needs to be addressed. The research question should be specific, relevant, and focused on a particular area of interest.

Conduct a Literature Review

Once the research question has been identified, the next step is to conduct a literature review. This involves reviewing existing research and literature on the topic to identify any gaps in knowledge or areas where further research is needed. A literature review helps to provide a theoretical framework for the research and also ensures that the research is not duplicating previous work.

Formulate a Hypothesis or Research Objectives

Based on the research question and literature review, the researcher can formulate a hypothesis or research objectives. A hypothesis is a statement that can be tested to determine its validity, while research objectives are specific goals that the researcher aims to achieve through the research.

Design a Research Plan and Methodology

This step involves designing a research plan and methodology that will enable the researcher to collect and analyze data to test the hypothesis or achieve the research objectives. The research plan should include details on the sample size, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques that will be used.

Collect and Analyze Data

This step involves collecting and analyzing data according to the research plan and methodology. Data can be collected through various methods, including surveys, interviews, observations, or experiments. The data analysis process involves cleaning and organizing the data, applying statistical and analytical techniques to the data, and interpreting the results.

Interpret the Findings and Draw Conclusions

After analyzing the data, the researcher must interpret the findings and draw conclusions. This involves assessing the validity and reliability of the results and determining whether the hypothesis was supported or not. The researcher must also consider any limitations of the research and discuss the implications of the findings.

Communicate the Results

Finally, the researcher must communicate the results of the research through a research report, presentation, or publication. The research report should provide a detailed account of the research process, including the research question, literature review, research methodology, data analysis, findings, and conclusions. The report should also include recommendations for further research in the area.

Review and Revise

The research process is an iterative one, and it is important to review and revise the research plan and methodology as necessary. Researchers should assess the quality of their data and methods, reflect on their findings, and consider areas for improvement.

Ethical Considerations

Throughout the research process, ethical considerations must be taken into account. This includes ensuring that the research design protects the welfare of research participants, obtaining informed consent, maintaining confidentiality and privacy, and avoiding any potential harm to participants or their communities.

Dissemination and Application

The final step in the research process is to disseminate the findings and apply the research to real-world settings. Researchers can share their findings through academic publications, presentations at conferences, or media coverage. The research can be used to inform policy decisions, develop interventions, or improve practice in the relevant field.

Research Process Example

Following is a Research Process Example:

Research Question : What are the effects of a plant-based diet on athletic performance in high school athletes?

Step 1: Background Research Conduct a literature review to gain a better understanding of the existing research on the topic. Read academic articles and research studies related to plant-based diets, athletic performance, and high school athletes.

Step 2: Develop a Hypothesis Based on the literature review, develop a hypothesis that a plant-based diet positively affects athletic performance in high school athletes.

Step 3: Design the Study Design a study to test the hypothesis. Decide on the study population, sample size, and research methods. For this study, you could use a survey to collect data on dietary habits and athletic performance from a sample of high school athletes who follow a plant-based diet and a sample of high school athletes who do not follow a plant-based diet.

Step 4: Collect Data Distribute the survey to the selected sample and collect data on dietary habits and athletic performance.

Step 5: Analyze Data Use statistical analysis to compare the data from the two samples and determine if there is a significant difference in athletic performance between those who follow a plant-based diet and those who do not.

Step 6 : Interpret Results Interpret the results of the analysis in the context of the research question and hypothesis. Discuss any limitations or potential biases in the study design.

Step 7: Draw Conclusions Based on the results, draw conclusions about whether a plant-based diet has a significant effect on athletic performance in high school athletes. If the hypothesis is supported by the data, discuss potential implications and future research directions.

Step 8: Communicate Findings Communicate the findings of the study in a clear and concise manner. Use appropriate language, visuals, and formats to ensure that the findings are understood and valued.

Applications of Research Process

The research process has numerous applications across a wide range of fields and industries. Some examples of applications of the research process include:

• Scientific research: The research process is widely used in scientific research to investigate phenomena in the natural world and develop new theories or technologies. This includes fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science.
• Social sciences : The research process is commonly used in social sciences to study human behavior, social structures, and institutions. This includes fields such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, and economics.
• Education: The research process is used in education to study learning processes, curriculum design, and teaching methodologies. This includes research on student achievement, teacher effectiveness, and educational policy.
• Healthcare: The research process is used in healthcare to investigate medical conditions, develop new treatments, and evaluate healthcare interventions. This includes fields such as medicine, nursing, and public health.
• Business and industry : The research process is used in business and industry to study consumer behavior, market trends, and develop new products or services. This includes market research, product development, and customer satisfaction research.
• Government and policy : The research process is used in government and policy to evaluate the effectiveness of policies and programs, and to inform policy decisions. This includes research on social welfare, crime prevention, and environmental policy.

Purpose of Research Process

The purpose of the research process is to systematically and scientifically investigate a problem or question in order to generate new knowledge or solve a problem. The research process enables researchers to:

• Identify gaps in existing knowledge: By conducting a thorough literature review, researchers can identify gaps in existing knowledge and develop research questions that address these gaps.
• Collect and analyze data : The research process provides a structured approach to collecting and analyzing data. Researchers can use a variety of research methods, including surveys, experiments, and interviews, to collect data that is valid and reliable.
• Test hypotheses : The research process allows researchers to test hypotheses and make evidence-based conclusions. Through the systematic analysis of data, researchers can draw conclusions about the relationships between variables and develop new theories or models.
• Solve problems: The research process can be used to solve practical problems and improve real-world outcomes. For example, researchers can develop interventions to address health or social problems, evaluate the effectiveness of policies or programs, and improve organizational processes.
• Generate new knowledge : The research process is a key way to generate new knowledge and advance understanding in a given field. By conducting rigorous and well-designed research, researchers can make significant contributions to their field and help to shape future research.

Tips for Research Process

Here are some tips for the research process:

• Start with a clear research question : A well-defined research question is the foundation of a successful research project. It should be specific, relevant, and achievable within the given time frame and resources.
• Conduct a thorough literature review: A comprehensive literature review will help you to identify gaps in existing knowledge, build on previous research, and avoid duplication. It will also provide a theoretical framework for your research.
• Choose appropriate research methods: Select research methods that are appropriate for your research question, objectives, and sample size. Ensure that your methods are valid, reliable, and ethical.
• Be organized and systematic: Keep detailed notes throughout the research process, including your research plan, methodology, data collection, and analysis. This will help you to stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss any important details.
• Analyze data rigorously: Use appropriate statistical and analytical techniques to analyze your data. Ensure that your analysis is valid, reliable, and transparent.
• I nterpret results carefully : Interpret your results in the context of your research question and objectives. Consider any limitations or potential biases in your research design, and be cautious in drawing conclusions.
• Communicate effectively: Communicate your research findings clearly and effectively to your target audience. Use appropriate language, visuals, and formats to ensure that your findings are understood and valued.
• Collaborate and seek feedback : Collaborate with other researchers, experts, or stakeholders in your field. Seek feedback on your research design, methods, and findings to ensure that they are relevant, meaningful, and impactful.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Research Process

• Getting Started
• Explore: Choose and Develop a Topic
• Refine: Develop a Scholarly Argument
• Search: Identify and Locate Information (OneSearch box)
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• Research Process Tutorial and Flow Chart
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Research Process Tutorial

• Research Process Tutorial This tutorial explains finding and refining a topic, finding and evaluating information, and preparing your argument.

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• Starting the research process

A Beginner's Guide to Starting the Research Process

When you have to write a thesis or dissertation , it can be hard to know where to begin, but there are some clear steps you can follow.

The research process often begins with a very broad idea for a topic you’d like to know more about. You do some preliminary research to identify a  problem . After refining your research questions , you can lay out the foundations of your research design , leading to a proposal that outlines your ideas and plans.

This article takes you through the first steps of the research process, helping you narrow down your ideas and build up a strong foundation for your research project.

Table of contents

Step 1: choose your topic, step 2: identify a problem, step 3: formulate research questions, step 4: create a research design, step 5: write a research proposal, other interesting articles.

First you have to come up with some ideas. Your thesis or dissertation topic can start out very broad. Think about the general area or field you’re interested in—maybe you already have specific research interests based on classes you’ve taken, or maybe you had to consider your topic when applying to graduate school and writing a statement of purpose .

Even if you already have a good sense of your topic, you’ll need to read widely to build background knowledge and begin narrowing down your ideas. Conduct an initial literature review to begin gathering relevant sources. As you read, take notes and try to identify problems, questions, debates, contradictions and gaps. Your aim is to narrow down from a broad area of interest to a specific niche.

Make sure to consider the practicalities: the requirements of your programme, the amount of time you have to complete the research, and how difficult it will be to access sources and data on the topic. Before moving onto the next stage, it’s a good idea to discuss the topic with your thesis supervisor.

>>Read more about narrowing down a research topic

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So you’ve settled on a topic and found a niche—but what exactly will your research investigate, and why does it matter? To give your project focus and purpose, you have to define a research problem .

The problem might be a practical issue—for example, a process or practice that isn’t working well, an area of concern in an organization’s performance, or a difficulty faced by a specific group of people in society.

Alternatively, you might choose to investigate a theoretical problem—for example, an underexplored phenomenon or relationship, a contradiction between different models or theories, or an unresolved debate among scholars.

To put the problem in context and set your objectives, you can write a problem statement . This describes who the problem affects, why research is needed, and how your research project will contribute to solving it.

>>Read more about defining a research problem

Next, based on the problem statement, you need to write one or more research questions . These target exactly what you want to find out. They might focus on describing, comparing, evaluating, or explaining the research problem.

A strong research question should be specific enough that you can answer it thoroughly using appropriate qualitative or quantitative research methods. It should also be complex enough to require in-depth investigation, analysis, and argument. Questions that can be answered with “yes/no” or with easily available facts are not complex enough for a thesis or dissertation.

In some types of research, at this stage you might also have to develop a conceptual framework and testable hypotheses .

>>See research question examples

The research design is a practical framework for answering your research questions. It involves making decisions about the type of data you need, the methods you’ll use to collect and analyze it, and the location and timescale of your research.

There are often many possible paths you can take to answering your questions. The decisions you make will partly be based on your priorities. For example, do you want to determine causes and effects, draw generalizable conclusions, or understand the details of a specific context?

You need to decide whether you will use primary or secondary data and qualitative or quantitative methods . You also need to determine the specific tools, procedures, and materials you’ll use to collect and analyze your data, as well as your criteria for selecting participants or sources.

>>Read more about creating a research design

Finally, after completing these steps, you are ready to complete a research proposal . The proposal outlines the context, relevance, purpose, and plan of your research.

As well as outlining the background, problem statement, and research questions, the proposal should also include a literature review that shows how your project will fit into existing work on the topic. The research design section describes your approach and explains exactly what you will do.

You might have to get the proposal approved by your supervisor before you get started, and it will guide the process of writing your thesis or dissertation.

>>Read more about writing a research proposal

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

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Research Flowchart

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Flowcharts used to be the most popular method to represent computer algorithms before computer terminals and third-generation programming languages started to take over in the late 1970s. According to the New World Encyclopedia, these programming languages express computer algorithms in a more concise and readable way. Despite technological advances, though, many still use flowcharts for various projects, such as clinical research project plans , etc.

What Is Research Flowchart?

A flowchart, in general, is a sequential graphical representation of the processes involved in solving a problem. This diagram contains connecting lines or arrows and boxes that represent a process workflow. Through this diagram, you can quickly analyze, design, and document a process or program, which makes it an essential part of research projects in various fields such as qualitative researches and case studies. This chart also helps your audience to effectively understand research proposals, data collection, research design, literature review, abstract, research questionnaires, and other sections of a research paper, since it can provide an overview of each part more quickly.

Different Types of Flowcharts

As a researcher, there are many types of flowchart that you can create to organize your research project . Provided below are the most common diagrams you can use.

Basic Flowchart

This type of flowchart represents a systematic step-by-step process that leads to certain conclusions. It contains different shapes and arrows which show the sequence and direction of a process. Moreover, you can use it to execute a more effective study analyzation, design, documentation , and process management.

Swimlane Flowchart

Unlike the basic flowchart, the swimlane flowchart shows the connection of different objects in the chart. An excellent example of this flowchart is an organizational chart. This type of chart usually highlights the positions and responsibilities of every individual who belongs to an organization. Aside from that, it shows how these people will work hand-in-hand to accomplish the ultimate  corporate goal .

Workflow Flowchart

The workflow diagram plays a vital role in the business process. This visualization tool allows you to represent the necessary tasks to obtain a specific goal. You may also indicate in the chart the people you assigned to execute the tasks. In research, you can use it to show the functionalities of particular objects.

Data Flowchart

Through a data flowchart, you can illustrate the connection of the information from the system and external sources. A data flowchart is also an essential tool in representing the flow of information or data into and out of a system.

18+ Research Flowchart Examples

Now that you know the most common types of research flowcharts, download the following samples to get more knowledge on how you can effectively use these diagrams.

1. Quantitative Research Flowchart Template

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2. Sample Research Flowchart Template

3. Research Proposal Flowchart Template

4. Research Process Flowchart Template

5. Market Research Flowchart Template

6. Editable Research Flowchart Template

7. Research Design Flowchart Template

8. Research Project Flowchart Template

9. Flowchart  for Writing Research Papers Examples

Size: 577 KB

10. Research Application Process Flowchart Example

Size: 170 KB

11. Statutory Research Flow Chart Example

Size: 17 KB

12. Research Proposal Evaluation and Process Flowchart Example

Size: 772 KB

13. External Research Proposal Flow Chart Example

Size: 158 KB

14. Clinical Study Research Flowchart Example

Size: 93 KB

15. Flow Chart of Research Strategies Example

Size: 186 KB

16. Conservation Area Research Flowchart Example

Size: 129 KB

17. Sample Flow Chart For Research Paper Example

Size: 32 KB

18. Research Commissioning Flowchart Example

Size: 241 KB

19. Research Governance Flowchart Example

How to Create a Process Flowchart?

As mentioned earlier, you can use flowcharts, such as a process flowchart , in various research sections. With that said, you need to follow an organized guide in creating a great flowchart, whether you are creating it for medical research or other scientific studies. Follow the steps provided below for you to come up with a functional research flowchart.

1. Do Your Research

Before doing anything else, you have to understand the environment of your research project. Determine if you need to learn specific research skills to carry out the investigation or research method accordingly.

2. Evaluate

In this step, you will determine if the existing researches have used flowcharts. You will also find out if there is a need to use a flowchart for your research project. You will then decide the best diagram that you can apply.

3. Create the Flowchart

There are many online tools that you can use to create a diagram for your project. You can use either the free or the paid versions. These paid versions may come with additional features. However, it is essential to know that usually, free versions will get the job done. You don’t want to pay for something that you don’t really need, right?

4. Modify and Enhance

To make your flowchart functional, include essential information such as the details or explanation of each content that you incorporate in your chart. However, keep in mind that in the real world, processes can be complex, so fitting all the materials on one page can be a challenge. Be creative. Summarize the process details, but do not omit the essential parts.

A flowchart is indeed vital in creating more strategic research in many aspects. Improving the flow of the project both in reader’s and the researcher’s end is just an example of what it can do. With that said, it can be helpful if you know how to incorporate this type of visualization to the research methodology that you are using.

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Step by Step: Details of the Research Process

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This flowchart should give you a good idea of the order in which to conduct library research. For more information on any step refer to the tabs above, or ask a Librarian.  Happy ReSearching.

Library Research Flowchart

Text version of research flowchart.

• Do Background Reading
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• Write a draft outline
• Gather Materials
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Research Process Steps: What they are + How To Follow

There are various approaches to conducting basic and applied research. This article explains the research process steps you should know. Whether you are doing basic research or applied research, there are many ways of doing it. In some ways, each research study is unique since it is conducted at a different time and place.

Conducting research might be difficult, but there are clear processes to follow. The research process starts with a broad idea for a topic. This article will assist you through the research process steps, helping you focus and develop your topic.

Research Process Steps

The research process consists of a series of systematic procedures that a researcher must go through in order to generate knowledge that will be considered valuable by the project and focus on the relevant topic.

To conduct effective research, you must understand the research process steps and follow them. Here are a few steps in the research process to make it easier for you:

Step 1: Identify the Problem

Finding an issue or formulating a research question is the first step. A well-defined research problem will guide the researcher through all stages of the research process, from setting objectives to choosing a technique. There are a number of approaches to get insight into a topic and gain a better understanding of it. Such as:

• A preliminary survey
• Case studies
• Interviews with a small group of people
• Observational survey

Step 2: Evaluate the Literature

A thorough examination of the relevant studies is essential to the research process . It enables the researcher to identify the precise aspects of the problem. Once a problem has been found, the investigator or researcher needs to find out more about it.

This stage gives problem-zone background. It teaches the investigator about previous research, how they were conducted, and its conclusions. The researcher can build consistency between his work and others through a literature review. Such a review exposes the researcher to a more significant body of knowledge and helps him follow the research process efficiently.

Step 3: Create Hypotheses

Formulating an original hypothesis is the next logical step after narrowing down the research topic and defining it. A belief solves logical relationships between variables. In order to establish a hypothesis, a researcher must have a certain amount of expertise in the field. 

It is important for researchers to keep in mind while formulating a hypothesis that it must be based on the research topic. Researchers are able to concentrate their efforts and stay committed to their objectives when they develop theories to guide their work.

Step 4: The Research Design

Research design is the plan for achieving objectives and answering research questions. It outlines how to get the relevant information. Its goal is to design research to test hypotheses, address the research questions, and provide decision-making insights.

The research design aims to minimize the time, money, and effort required to acquire meaningful evidence. This plan fits into four categories:

• Exploration and Surveys
• Data Analysis
• Observation

Step 5: Describe Population

Research projects usually look at a specific group of people, facilities, or how technology is used in the business. In research, the term population refers to this study group. The research topic and purpose help determine the study group.

Suppose a researcher wishes to investigate a certain group of people in the community. In that case, the research could target a specific age group, males or females, a geographic location, or an ethnic group. A final step in a study’s design is to specify its sample or population so that the results may be generalized.

Step 6: Data Collection

Data collection is important in obtaining the knowledge or information required to answer the research issue. Every research collected data, either from the literature or the people being studied. Data must be collected from the two categories of researchers. These sources may provide primary data.

• Questionnaire

Secondary data categories are:

• Literature survey
• Official, unofficial reports
• An approach based on library resources

Step 7: Data Analysis

During research design, the researcher plans data analysis. After collecting data, the researcher analyzes it. The data is examined based on the approach in this step. The research findings are reviewed and reported.

Data analysis involves a number of closely related stages, such as setting up categories, applying these categories to raw data through coding and tabulation, and then drawing statistical conclusions. The researcher can examine the acquired data using a variety of statistical methods.

Step 8: The Report-writing

After completing these steps, the researcher must prepare a report detailing his findings. The report must be carefully composed with the following in mind:

• The Layout: On the first page, the title, date, acknowledgments, and preface should be on the report. A table of contents should be followed by a list of tables, graphs, and charts if any.
• Introduction: It should state the research’s purpose and methods. This section should include the study’s scope and limits.
• Summary of Findings: A non-technical summary of findings and recommendations will follow the introduction. The findings should be summarized if they’re lengthy.
• Principal Report: The main body of the report should make sense and be broken up into sections that are easy to understand.
• Conclusion: The researcher should restate his findings at the end of the main text. It’s the final result.

LEARN ABOUT: 12 Best Tools for Researchers

The research process involves several steps that make it easy to complete the research successfully. The steps in the research process described above depend on each other, and the order must be kept. So, if we want to do a research project, we should follow the research process steps.

QuestionPro’s enterprise-grade research platform can collect survey and qualitative observation data. The tool’s nature allows for data processing and essential decisions. The platform lets you store and process data. Start immediately!

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Research Process

• Brainstorming
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• Primary and Secondary Resources
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Introduction

Research is a life skill. You use it every day inside the classroom and out. Which smart phone should I buy? What college should I choose? Should I have this surgery? You apply the same modes of research in your coursework for papers, presentations, discussion posts, and more. It is crucial to know how to navigate through this linear research process. In doing so, you will gain lifelong skills of information literacy.

The details for each step of the research process will vary depending on the topic, available research, and assignment or research goal, but the main idea behind each step will always remain the same. By developing a research strategy, you will be better able to focus on your topic, organize your search, manage your time efficiently, progress from general to specific resources, and understand when you have researched your topic thoroughly or if further examination is needed.

Remember that the research process takes time and effort. You should not expect to complete all of these steps in only a few hours; in fact, library research for a dissertation often takes years. By thoughtfully approaching your assignment you will be able to pick a reasonable topic, research the topic, and compose an organized piece of scholarly research.

Research Process Flow Chart

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Research Process

Dissertation markers expect you to include the explanation of research process in methodology chapter. A typical research process comprises the following stages:

1. Selecting the research area . Your dissertation marker expects you to state that you have selected the research area due to professional and personal interests in the area and this statement must be true. Students often underestimate the importance of this first stage in the research process. If you find a research area and research problem that is genuinely interesting to you it is for sure that the whole process of writing your dissertation will be much easier. Therefore, it is never too early to start thinking about the research area for your dissertation.

2. Formulating research aim, objectives and research questions or developing hypotheses . The choice between the formulation of research questions and the development of hypotheses depends on your research approach as it is discussed further below in more details. Appropriate research aims and objectives or hypotheses usually result from several attempts and revisions.

Accordingly, you need to mention in your dissertation that you have revised your research aims and objectives or hypotheses during the research process several times to get their final versions. It is critically important that you get confirmation from your supervisor regarding your research questions or hypotheses before moving forward with the work.

3. Conducting the literature review . Literature review is usually the longest stage in the research process. Actually, the literature review starts even before the formulation of research aims and objective. This is because you have to check if exactly the same research problem has been addressed before and this task is a part of the literature review. Nevertheless, you will conduct the main part of the literature review after the formulation of research aim and objectives. You have to use a wide range of secondary data sources such as books, newspapers, magazines, journals, online articles etc.

4. Selecting data collection methods . Data collection method(s) need to be selected on the basis of critically analyzing advantages and disadvantages associated with several alternative methods. In studies involving primary data collection, you need to write about advantages and disadvantages of selected primary data collection method(s) in detailed manner in methodology.

5. Collecting the primary data . You will have to start primary data collection only after detailed preparation. Sampling is an important element of this stage. You may have to conduct pilot data collection if you chose questionnaire primary data collection method. Primary data collection is not a compulsory stage for all dissertations and you will skip this stage if you are conducting a desk-based research.

6. Data analysis . Analysis of data plays an important role in the achievement of research aim and objectives. This stage involves an extensive editing and coding of data. Data analysis methods vary between secondary and primary studies, as well as, between qualitative and quantitative studies. In data analysis coding of primary data plays an instrumental role to reduce sample group responses to a more manageable form for storage and future processing. Data analysis is discussed in Chapter 6 in great details.

7. Reaching conclusions . Conclusions relate to the level of achievement of research aims and objectives. In this final part of your dissertation you will have to justify why you think that research aims and objectives have been achieved. Conclusions also need to cover research limitations and suggestions for future research .

8. Completing the research . Following all of the stages described above, and organizing separate chapters into one file leads to the completion of the first draft. You need to prepare the first draft of your dissertation at least one month before the submission deadline. This is because you will need to have sufficient amount of time to address feedback to be provided by your supervisor.

Individual stages in the research process outlined above are interdependent and the sequence has to be maintained. Moreover, the process of any research tends to be iterative, meaning that you may have to return back to the previous stages of the research process several times for revisions and improvement. In other words, no stage of the research process is fully completed until the whole dissertation is completed.

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• All About Thesis Methodology Flowcharts

Methodology flowchart thesis illustrations show how you plan to do your research. They help you understand your research goals and guide you in choosing the right questions, selecting samples, collecting data, and analyzing it.

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When writing a thesis, dissertation, or academic article, you need to present information in a structured way. To do this, researchers use different methods and approaches to gather and analyze data. The methodology section of a thesis is important because it explains what you did and how you conducted your research. This helps readers evaluate the accuracy and trustworthiness of your work.

Most researchers employ methodology flowchart thesis presentations to strategize, structure, portray, and conceptualize their research methodologies. This article demonstrates the importance of thesis methodology flowcharts through real-life thesis flow chart examples and a practical way to construct them.

In this article

• Importance of Thesis Research Methodology Flowcharts
• EdrawMax- A One-Stop Solution to Thesis Methodology Flowchart Designing Needs!
• How to Craft a Detailed Thesis Methodology Flowchart Using EdrawMax?

Part I: Importance of Thesis Research Methodology Flowcharts

The research thesis methodology flowcharts show how you will tackle your research questions, making your research more successful. Creating a thesis flowchart involves studying the theories and ideas that guide the procedures in your field and organizing your activities in a step-by-step order.

Research methodology flowcharts are very important because they provide a clear plan that helps researchers stay focused and makes the process efficient and manageable. It ensures that your conclusions are based on scientific principles and gives your research credibility.

Part II: EdrawMax- A One-Stop Solution to Thesis Methodology Flowchart Designing Needs!

Creating a structure for your dissertation takes a lot of time. You need to organize your ideas and have strong supporting details. If you don't arrange things in order, your ideas can become confused and unclear. To avoid this, you need a modern diagramming tool that can help you save time and focus on writing your dissertation.

EdrawMax helps you bring your ideas to life when designing thesis flowcharts. It has many useful features like a wide range of symbols, the ability to create multiple pages, helpful alignment tools, easy customization options, and various ways to export your work. Whether you're a student, researcher, teacher, or anyone in education, EdrawMax is a complete solution for all your drawing needs.

Visual Illustration of a Thesis Methodology Flowchart

Consider this practical methodology flowchart thesis example to gain insights into how a well-structured thesis methodology flowchart seems:

When you conduct research, it's important to follow a step-by-step process to ensure accurate and reliable results. This process involves discovering, collecting, evaluating, and presenting ideas in a specific order. By following this standardized procedure, your thesis will be reliable and won't have any incorrect findings. Here is the methodized step-by-step process to help you formulate your thesis research methodology:

Preliminary Strategizing

Before starting your research, it's important to plan ahead. This involves choosing the location, field, and community where you will conduct your research. It's also important to get permission from the community to conduct your research, as it's an ethical concern.

Next, you need to set a clear objective for your thesis and come up with a logical research question. You can do this by observing, studying, or analyzing a situation. Observations can be intentional, where you purposely observe a specific behavior in a community. Sometimes, research questions arise from analyzing current situations, like the coronavirus, pollution, or poverty in a certain town.

Data Collection

Collecting data is an important step in research. It involves observing or measuring things in a systematic way. Before you start collecting data, you need to clearly define your goals. You can do this by explaining the problem you want to address. For example, you might collect data on bomb blast victims or people with aggressive behaviors.

There are two types of data: primary and secondary data. Primary data is information that you collect directly from original sources. Secondary data, on the other hand, is information that has already been gathered or processed by someone else.

Data Processing

After collecting data, the next step is to decide how to process and analyze it. Data processing is when you take the collected data and turn it into useful information that can be used by others. This information can help support or disprove theories, make decisions, or bring about positive changes in a community.

To choose the right data processing method, consider the nature and type of your research and think about your thesis research question. It's important not to get too specific at this stage and avoid discussing any results. Focus on finding a suitable technique that will help you process and analyze your data effectively.

Data Analysis

Researchers use data analysis to make sense of their research findings by organizing, combining, summarizing, and categorizing the data. This helps them identify patterns and themes in the information they have collected.

In the thesis methodology flowchart example mentioned above, the data analysis techniques used are lean and Six Sigma concepts . These methods follow a series of steps, including defining, measuring, analyzing, categorizing, and improving the data to make it more meaningful and valuable.

Evaluation Phase

Data evaluation is a way to check if data is trustworthy, thorough, and consistent. It involves comparing data with specific goals, finding any missing information, and discovering trends, patterns, and connections. Another name for data evaluation is data mining because it uses statistical analysis to uncover valuable insights and generate better information.

Report Writing

Once you have finished your research, it's time to organize and present the information you have gathered. Report writing involves putting all the information together, drawing conclusions based on your findings, and providing recommendations based on the results. It's important to consider who will be reading your report, as the audience plays a significant role in how you present your information.

Part III: How to Craft a Detailed Thesis Methodology Flowchart Using EdrawMax?

EdrawMax is a user-friendly and affordable tool that helps people create detailed diagrams quickly. It's accessible to both small and medium-sized users, making it easy for everyone to make complex diagrams in just a few minutes. Let's see how you can use EdrawMax to create a fantastic flowchart for organizing your thesis.

Download and launch "EdrawMax" on your device for thesis methodology flowchart creation.

Click the "New" tab in the left pane, hover over the "Basic Flowchart" tab, and click the "Create New" button.

Sketch the skeleton of your thesis methodology flowchart by drawing all the required shapes on the canvas at accurate locations.

Embed relevant information in each box to portray your details in exact sequence; you can also rescale the shapes to accommodate larger texts.

Join all the shapes to develop a flow in your thesis methodology flowchart; for this, navigate to the "Connector" tab in the "Home" menu.

You can also personalize the outlook of your thesis research methodology flowchart for enhanced understanding; to do so, navigate to the "Design" tab and apply your desired changes.

To customize an individual item or multiple items simultaneously, select those items and perform your preferred modification.

Click the "Export" option at the top and choose your desired format to save your research thesis methodology flowchart.

Benefits of Using EdrawMax for Thesis Methodology Flowchart Designing

Before using a diagramming application , it's important to consider its features, price, compatibility, and other important factors. Doing thorough research on these aspects will help you make an informed decision and avoid the inconvenience of switching between multiple tools because they don't have the right features for your needs.

EdrawMax is an excellent platform for designing methodology flow chart thesis projects because it offers a wide range of tools that suit everyone's needs. We have listed several reasons why EdrawMax is the best choice for creating your academic diagrams.

• EdrawMax has a Templates Community where you can find ready-made templates to save you the trouble of starting from scratch. It also has a variety of symbol libraries to create different types of flowcharts, making it more fun and expressive.
• With EdrawMax, you can add multiple pages to your thesis flowchart project, keeping your ideas organized and avoiding complexity. You can also enhance your flowcharts by adding pictures, hyperlinks, charts, tables, icons, and other elements to make them insightful and expressive.
• The user interface of EdrawMax is easy to use, with a quick toolbar that allows you to customize shapes and text with just one click. Even the free version of EdrawMax offers customization options like fill and border color, border style, width, rescaling, background type, connector type, and font customization.
• EdrawMax also supports real-time collaboration, which is helpful when you need to discuss and refine your methodology flowchart with your research supervisor. Additionally, you can export your methodology flowchart thesis file in various formats such as PNG, JPG, PDF, SVG, and Visio.
• Overall, EdrawMax provides a user-friendly and versatile platform for creating and customizing methodology flowcharts for your thesis.

Writing a thesis requires careful attention to analyzing and presenting research findings. The methodology you choose for your dissertation plays a crucial role in how you collect data, analyze it, and present your results. Whether you're conducting qualitative or quantitative research, the methodology you use has a significant impact on your entire dissertation.

To make your research more organized, you can create a thesis methodology flowchart . This flowchart helps you outline and visualize the step-by-step process of your research, from selecting techniques and approaches to analyzing data and presenting results. This article offers a detailed guide on how to create a practical and visually appealing thesis methodology flowchart to enhance your research process.

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How to Create an Effective PRISMA Flow Diagram

A PRISMA flow diagram is a visual representation of the study selection process in a systematic review or meta-analysis. PRISMA flow charts help improve transparency, methodological quality, and reporting in these types of studies, making it easier for authors, reviewers, and readers to understand the research process and assess potential biases.

Updated on December 27, 2023

If you’ve ever read a systematic review and/or meta-analysis , you may have noticed that the authors followed the “PRISMA guidelines”. But what exactly does that mean?

According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) website, “PRISMA is an evidence-based minimum set of items for reporting in systematic reviews and meta-analyses. PRISMA primarily focuses on the reporting of reviews evaluating the effects of interventions, but can also be used as a basis for reporting systematic reviews with objectives other than evaluating interventions (e.g. evaluating etiology, prevalence, diagnosis or prognosis).”

What is a PRISMA flow diagram?

A PRISMA flow diagram is an image that shows the flow of information in a systematic review or meta-analysis. PRISMA stands for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, which is an evidence-based set of reporting guidelines developed to improve the transparency and quality of reporting in these types of studies.

A PRISMA flow diagram provides a visual overview of the different stages in a systematic review or meta-analysis, including the identification, screening, eligibility assessment, and inclusion of studies. It helps researchers and readers understand the study selection process in the review and any reasons for excluding certain studies.

The flow diagram typically starts with the initial number of studies identified through database searches. It then outlines the number of studies remaining after removing duplicates and the number of studies excluded at each stage based on predefined eligibility criteria. Finally, it shows the number of studies included in the final analysis.

The PRISMA flow chart is an important component of a systematic review or meta-analysis , as it provides a clear overview of the study selection process. It allows readers to assess the rigor and comprehensiveness of the review and helps researchers avoid bias or potential errors in study selection.

What are the benefits of using PRISMA?

For authors:.

• Transparency : PRISMA flow charts enhance the transparency of the research process and help authors clearly communicate the steps taken to identify, screen, and include/exclude studies, promoting transparency and reproducibility.
• Methodological quality : A PRISMA flow diagram helps authors maintain a clear and organized record of their study selection process, which is crucial in assessing the reliability and validity of the review.
• Reduced bias : A PRISMA flow diagram documents the number of studies identified, screened, and included/excluded, with the reasons for exclusion. This transparency helps readers evaluate potential bias and assess the generalizability of the findings.
• Enhanced reporting : A PRISMA flow diagram supplements the written description of the study selection process, allowing authors to present a comprehensive and visually appealing summary of their work. This visual representation helps readers quickly understand the selection of studies and the reasons for their inclusion or exclusion.
• Compliance with guidelines : Many academic journals and research institutions require authors to adhere to PRISMA guidelines when conducting systematic reviews or meta-analyses. 

For Journal Peer Reviewers and Editors: 

• Evaluation of study selection process : PRISMA flow diagrams allow reviewers and editors to evaluate the study selection process followed by the authors. The flow diagram provides a clear overview of the number of records identified, screened, and included/excluded at each stage, enabling reviewers to assess the quality and comprehensiveness of the review. 
• Assessment of bias and generalizability : By reviewing the PRISMA flow chart, reviewers can examine the reasons for excluding studies from the review. This information allows them to evaluate potential sources of bias and assess the generalizability of the findings. 
• Reproducibility and transparency : PRISMA flow diagrams enhance the reproducibility and transparency of research. Reviewers and other researchers can easily follow the flow diagram to repeat the steps taken by the authors in selecting studies for inclusion.
• Compliance with guidelines : PRISMA flow diagrams are aligned with the PRISMA guidelines and checklist. Reviewers can use the flow diagram to ensure that the authors have complied with these guidelines and followed appropriate reporting standards.
• Assessment of methodological quality : Reviewers can use the PRISMA flow diagram as a tool to evaluate the methodological quality of the systematic review or meta-analysis. They can ensure that all relevant studies have been included and irrelevant ones excluded. 

What is included in a PRISMA flow diagram?

 A PRISMA flow diagram includes several elements and provides a visual representation of the study selection process in a systematic review or meta-analysis. Blow are the key components typically included in a PRISMA flow diagram:

1) Identification

The flow diagram starts with the initial number of records identified through various sources such as literature databases, manual searches, or other means.

Flow diagram from:  Page MJ, McKenzie JE, Bossuyt PM, Boutron I, Hoffmann TC, Mulrow CD, et al. The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ 2021;372:n71. doi: 10.1136/bmj.n71. For more information, visit: http://www.prisma-statement.org/

2) Screening

It shows the number of records remaining after removing duplicates. This stage involves screening the titles and abstracts of the identified records to assess their relevance to the research question or objective.

3) Eligibility

The flow diagram indicates the number of studies that passed the initial screening and proceeded to the next stage. At this stage, full-text articles of potentially relevant studies are assessed against predetermined eligibility criteria.

4) Inclusion/Exclusion 

It presents the number of studies included in the systematic review or meta-analysis. These studies have met the predefined eligibility criteria and are considered suitable for further analysis. The flow diagram highlights the number of studies excluded at different stages and the reasons for their exclusion. Common reasons for exclusion include irrelevance to the research question, inadequate study design, insufficient data, or failure to meet specific inclusion criteria.

5) Data Extraction

Depending on the study design and objectives, the flow diagram may include a stage for data extraction, where the number of studies included for data extraction is recorded. Data extraction involves extracting relevant information from the included studies, such as study characteristics, outcomes, and effect sizes.

6) Synthesis

While not always included in the flow diagram, some flow diagrams may show the number of studies included in the synthesis or analysis phase. This stage involves synthesizing the findings of the included studies, often through statistical methods, to draw overall conclusions.

PRISMA flow diagram examples and templates

Examples of and templates for PRISMA flow diagrams can be found on the PRISMA webpage .

PRISMA flow chart best practices

When creating a PRISMA flow diagram, it is important to follow certain best practices to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to the PRISMA guidelines. 

Before creating the flow diagram, thoroughly read and understand the PRISMA guidelines. Familiarize yourself with the recommended reporting items and the flow diagram structure specified in the guidelines.

Avoid overcrowding the flow diagram with excessive text or unnecessary details. Use concise and clear descriptions for each stage, ensuring that readers can easily follow the flow of information.

Include the necessary information in each step of the flow chart. This typically includes the number of studies or records at each stage (n= ), reasons for exclusion (if applicable), and the final number of studies included in the analysis.

Use consistent terminology throughout the flow diagram. Ensure that the terms used in the flow diagram match those used in the text. 

If possible, provide detailed information on the reasons for excluding studies at each stage. This can include specific eligibility criteria not met, study design limitations, or any other relevant details that justify exclusion. However, be mindful of space constraints and the need for readability.

Double-check the accuracy of the flow diagram by cross-referencing it with the study selection process described in the text. Ensure that the flow diagram accurately represents the steps taken and the number of studies at each stage.

 If any changes occur during the review process (e.g., updated searches, additional screening rounds), update the flow diagram accordingly to reflect the most current information accurately.

Challenges with PRISMA flow diagrams

While PRISMA flow diagrams have several benefits, there are also some challenges associated with their creation and interpretation. Here are some common challenges:

• Complexity of the study selection process : The study selection process in systematic reviews or meta-analyses can be complex, involving multiple screening rounds, eligibility criteria, and decision-making criteria. Representing this complexity in a concise and clear flow diagram can be challenging, especially when dealing with a large number of studies.
• Space constraints : Journals often have limitations on the space available for figures and flow diagrams. PRISMA flow diagrams need to be designed to fit within these limitations, which can make it difficult to include all relevant information and maintain readability.
• Limited information in the flow diagram : PRISMA flow charts provide a summary of the study selection process but may not capture all the details and nuances of the inclusion and exclusion decisions. The flow diagram alone may not fully explain the reasons behind each decision, which may require referring to the main text for more comprehensive information.
• Evolving review process : Systematic reviews and meta-analyses can be iterative processes, involving ongoing updates, additional searches, or changes in inclusion/exclusion criteria. Keeping the flow diagram up to date with these changes can be challenging, especially if multiple versions of the flow diagram exist.
• Interpretation challenges : Readers and reviewers may interpret the flow diagram differently, leading to potential misunderstandings or misinterpretations. The flow diagram should be designed and described in a way that minimizes ambiguity and maximizes clarity.

Final thoughts

PRISMA flow diagrams benefit both authors and readers by promoting transparency, methodological quality, reduced bias, enhanced reporting, and compliance with guidelines. They contribute to the overall quality and credibility of the systematic review or meta-analysis, enabling readers to assess the reliability and validity of the study selection process. 

PRISMA flow diagrams remain valuable tools for summarizing and visualizing the study selection process in both systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

For more in-depth information about PRISMA flow charts, check out the article titled PRISMA 2020 explanation and elaboration: updated guidance and exemplars for reporting systematic reviews in the BMJ .

Catherine Zettel Nalen, MS

Academic Editor, Specialist, and Journal Recommendation Team Lead

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Ultimate Flowchart Tutorial | Learn What is a flowchart and How to create a flowchart

So you want to learn flowcharts? Well, This flowchart tutorial will teach you all you need to know. It will cover the history of flowcharts, flowchart symbols, how to create flowcharts, flowchart best practices and we’ve also included a section to answer frequent questions about flowcharts. Best of all you can use our flowchart software.

Creately already has some really awesome articles and videos covering various things related to flowcharts like meanings of flowchart symbols, how to use swimlanes in flowcharts, flowchart best practices, case studies, and much more.

History of Flowcharts

Frank Gilberth introduced flowcharts in 1921, and they were called “Process Flow Charts” at the beginning. Allan H. Mogensen is credited with training business people on how to use flowcharts. Wikipedia has a great summary of the history of flowcharts, read more in this wiki section .

What is a Flowchart

Flowcharts are visual representations of processes and systems, showing the various steps, decision points, and paths through a process. In a wide range of fields, including software development, engineering, business, and education, it is used to help understand, analyze, and optimize processes. A well-designed flowchart should be easy to read and follow a logical sequence of steps.

Flowchart Symbols

Flowchart symbols are graphical representations of various components of a process or system. Each symbol is used to denote a particular action, decision, or result in the process being represented. Each symbol also has a specific meaning.

So what are the different symbols used in a flowchart?. Most people are only aware of basic symbols like processes and decision blocks. But there are many more symbols to make your flowchart more meaningful. The above image shows all the standard flowchart symbols.

The most common symbol used in a flowchart is the rectangle. A rectangle represents a process, operation, or a task. The next most common symbol is the diamond which is used to represent a decision.

With this following list, you can figure out the most commonly used flowchart symbols as well as those that are little-known. All these shapes are available in Creately and you can try out a demo or take a look at some flowchart examples for more context.

Terminal / Terminator

The terminator shows where your process begins or ends. You can use words like ‘Start’, ‘Begin’, ‘End’ inside the terminator shape to make things more obvious.

Process / Rectangle

Flowchart process shape is used to represent a process, action step, or operation. While these are pictured with rectangles, the text in the rectangle mostly includes a verb. For example, ‘Edit Video’, ‘Try Again’, ‘Choose Your Plan’.n’.

The Data object, often referred to as the I/O Shape shows the Inputs to and Outputs from a process. This takes the shape of a parallelogram.

Decision / Conditional

The decision shape is represented as a Diamond. This object is always used in a process flow to ask a question. And, the answer to the question determines the arrows coming out of the Diamond. This shape is quite unique with two arrows coming out of it. One from the bottom point corresponding to Yes or True and one from either the right/left point corresponding to No or False. The arrows should always be labeled to avoid confusion in the process flow.

The document object is a rectangle with a wave-like base. This shape is used to represent a Document or Report in a process flow.

Stored Data

This is a general data storage object used in the process flow as opposed to data that could be also stored on a hard drive, magnetic tape, memory card, of any other storage device.

Direct Data

Direct Data object in a process flow represents information stored which can be accessed directly. This object represents a computer’s hard drive.

Internal Storage

This is a shape that is commonly found in programming flowcharts to illustrate the information stored in memory, as opposed to on a file. This shape is often referred to as the magnetic core memory of early computers, or the random access memory (RAM) as we call it today.

Sequential Access

This object takes the shape of a reel of tape. It represents information stored in a sequence, such as data on a magnetic tape.

Manual Input

This object is represented by a rectangle with the top sloping up from left to right. The Manual Input object signifies an action where the user is prompted for information that must be manually input into a system.

Subroutine / Predefined Process

This shape takes two names – ‘Subroutine’ or ‘Predefined Process’. Its called a subroutine if you use this object in flowcharting a software program. This allows you to write one subroutine and call it as often as you like from anywhere in the code.

The same object is also called a Predefined Process. This means the flowchart for the predefined process has to be already drawn, and you should reference the flowchart for more information.

Although these are the standard symbols available in most flowchart software, some people do use different shapes for different meanings. The most common example of this is using circles to denote start and end. The examples in this flowchart tutorial will stick with the standard symbols.

How to Draw a Flowchart

How do you draw a flowchart? Well, our flowcharting tool is a good place to start. But before directly using the tool, let’s take a look at some basics.

There are four main types of flowcharts. Document flowchart, System flowchart, data flowchart, and program flowchart. Not everyone agrees with this categorization, but the core principles of drawing a flowchart remain the same. You need to consider a few things when drawing a flowchart, Check out 6 useful tips on drawing flowcharts before you start.

If you are drawing a flowchart with many responsible parties you can group them together using swimlanes. Swimlanes are a powerful technique to increase the readability of your flowchart so you should use them according to the situation. Read how to use cross-functional flowchart for planning to learn more about the process.

The below video shows how to draw a flowchart using Creately. It is very simple to use and one-click create and connect helps you draw them faster as well. You can drag and drop symbols from the library or drag images to your diagram by doing an image search.

Here are the Steps to Draw a Flowchart

1. explain the procedure.

Determine the function and boundaries of the system or process you wish to depict in the flowchart. The process’s inputs, outputs, and actions should be identified.

2. Choose the shapes and symbols

To represent the many process components—such as the start and end points, inputs, outputs, actions, decisions, and loops—choose the right symbols and shapes. Rectangles, diamonds, circles, and arrows are the most often utilized shapes in flowcharts. To access all shapes, enable Creately’s flowchart shapes library.

3. Organize the flow

Determine the order of the steps in the process and the different paths that can be taken. This will help you organize the flow of the flowchart. Use Creately’s Plus Create to add the next shape and the connector in a single click.

4. Review and revise

Check that the flowchart accurately depicts the procedure and is simple to read and understand. If required, revise it to make it more precise and understandable. Share feedback using Creately’s contextual comments.

5. Share the flowchart

Distribute the flowchart to coworkers, stakeholders, or clients who will need to use it or refer to it easily with a workspace link

Flowchart Templates and Examples

Although you can start drawing flowcharts by scratch it is much easier to use templates. They help you reduce errors and remind you about the best practices to follow. If you want to use a ready-made template, go to the flowchart examples section and click on the flowchart that best suits you. Click on the use at template after the image and you are ready to draw your flowchart.

Below are two templates out of hundreds of flowchart templates available to the user. Click on any of them to start drawing flowcharts immediately.

• Ready to use
• Fully customizable template
• Get Started in seconds

Flowchart Best Practices

There are a few things you can do to make your flowchart universally accepted. And there are some things that you can do to make it visually pleasing to others as well.

If you’re planning to share your flowchart or hoping to use it on a presentation etc. then it’s wise to use standard symbols. However, it is important to remember that the idea is to give out information in an easy-to-understand manner. It is perfectly acceptable to use an alternative image instead of the document symbol as long as the audience understands it.

Keeping the arrow flow to one side, using the same size symbols, naming the decision blocks, processes, arrows, etc. are a few things you can do to make it better. The common mistakes section covers most of these practices in detail.

Map out any process, workflows, or system with ease. Dedicated shape library, drag and drop interface, and powerful diagramming for super-fast drawing.

Common Mistakes Made when Drawing Flowcharts

This section highlights the common mistakes made when drawing flowcharts. Some of the things mentioned here are to make it better looking and more understandable, not having them in your flowchart won’t make it wrong. Since there are two posts covering these mistakes in-depth I will link to them from this flowchart tutorial.

Effective Use of Flowcharts – Case Studies

A flowchart tutorial isn’t complete without some case studies. Below are three case studies and real-life examples of how flowcharts can help you make decisions.

• Ten Flowchart Ideas for Your Business – How flowcharts can be used in making business decisions and optimizing the current business processes
• Analyzing Sales Funnel with Flowcharts – How to analyze the Google analytic sales funnel using a flowchart.
• Flutterscape Case Study – How one of our customers used flowcharts to enhance their processes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flowchart

The comments section of this article is full of questions. Please note that I will not draw flowcharts for specific scenarios. Below I have answered some of the most frequently asked questions.

Q 01 : What is a subprocess in a flowchart?

Answer: Sometimes complex processes are broken down into smaller sub-processes for clarity. So a flowchart can point to a different sub-process within its flow. The predefined process symbol is used to show such subprocesses.

Q 02 : How are flowcharts used in computer programming?

Answer: A computer program consists of many processes and flows. Flowcharts are used to visualize the processes and make them understandable for non-technical people. They are also used to visualize algorithms and comprehend pseudo-code which is used in programming.

Comments and Feedback on the Flowchart Tutorial

I hope this flowchart tutorial will help you to come up with awesome flowcharts. Flowcharts are a great way to present complex processes in a simple-to-understand manner and they are used all over the world in many industries. If you have a question about drawing flowcharts or have any suggestions to improve this post, feel free to mention in the comments section.

More Diagram Tutorials

• Sequence Diagram Tutorial: Complete Guide with Examples
• Business Process Modeling Tutorial (BPM Guide Explaining Features)
• Use Case Diagram Tutorial (Guide with Examples)

Join over thousands of organizations that use Creately to brainstorm, plan, analyze, and execute their projects successfully.

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Software engineer turned tech evangelist. I handle marketing stuff here at Creately including writing blog posts and handling social media accounts. In my spare time, I love to read and travel.

What is a flowchart? — tips, examples, and templates

What is a flowchart?

Flowchart definition A flowchart is a diagram that uses symbols and arrows to visualize a process. ‍

A flowchart is a diagram that uses symbols and arrows to visualize a process. Flowcharts, also known as flow diagrams, are a handy way to design and document each step in a workflow and illustrate how they’re interconnected. Using a standardized set of symbols, including shapes and arrows, flowcharts make it possible to communicate complex processes using a shared visual language. Flowcharts were first used in the computing world in the 1940s. As Indiana University professor Nathan Ensmenger explains, “The idea was that an analyst would examine a problem, design an algorithmic solution, and outline that algorithm in the form of a flowchart diagram.” But flowcharts don’t start and end with computer programming. Today, flowcharts are a useful tool for building and documenting processes, both simple and complex. They’re used in a wide variety of disciplines and fields, from software development to education to business operations and beyond.z

When to use a flowchart

In what scenarios does it make sense to create or use a flowchart? Let’s take a look at some common use cases. This list is by no means exhaustive — there are infinite ways to make flowcharts work for you.  You might use a flowchart when you want to:

• Document a process
• Identify potential breakdowns and bottlenecks in a process
• Visualize dependencies in a process
• Automate a manual process
• Visualize the flow of data
• Plan a project
• Identify the right person to own a task or project
• Troubleshoot technical issues
• Make a decision that involves multiple variables

Demystifying flowchart symbols

At first glance, flowcharts and diagrams can look overwhelming. What do all the different shapes mean? But when we take some time to understand flowchart symbols’ meanings, they start to tell a visual story. They indicate when a process starts, the logic that makes it progress, and when it comes to an end.

Basic flowchart symbols

Let’s start with the basics. These are the five symbols you’ll most commonly find in a simple flowchart.

Terminator, Start/End

Every process has a start and an end point. Use the oval shape to identify both moments.

Action, process

The rectangle shape is used for actions or instructions, the things that must be done.

The diamond shape indicates a step in the process that asks a question or requires a decision.

Use a circle when leaping from one action to another.

Flowlines indicate the directional flow of the process and point to the next step.

Other common flowchart symbols

You can create most simple flowcharts using just five symbols — but you’re not limited to those shapes. Different types of flowcharts also rely on different symbols. For example, Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) diagrams use icons, while Unified Modeling Language (UML) diagrams use a much more complex notation system. Some visual collaborators prefer to use less abstracted images to represent specific aspects of a workflow. For example, an app developer might use an image of a bug to represent all the QA steps in launching a new feature. Play around with your flowchart’s shapes and symbols to find what works best for you. ‍

Whatever visual language you use, make sure to be consistent so that the idea or process you are mapping is easily understood.

How to make a flowchart

For almost as long as we’ve had computers, we’ve had flowchart creation software. For serious diagrammers, like the folks mapping out computer algorithms, there are dedicated tools specifically for creating complex flowcharts. However, most people don’t need something quite so robust. In fact, you probably already use a tool that offers flowcharting capabilities — for example, Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, or Google Slides. Unfortunately, these types of flowchart software have some limitations. Most flowchart makers are designed to be extremely linear, making it difficult to adjust and iterate on the fly. They also limit your team’s ability to collaborate on diagramming in real time. Instead, you’re left playing diagramming ping-pong with your teammates. This back-and-forth can cost you valuable time and prevent you from coming to solutions quickly as a cohesive team. If you need a flowchart maker that allows you to collaborate — especially with a remote or distributed team — you need a visual collaboration platform. Visual collaboration platforms are especially useful when you’re in the early stages of designing a flowchart. You’ll have more flexibility with a dynamic flowchart creator that makes it easy to drag and drop symbols and quickly connect the dots — and to do it collaboratively.

Flowchart examples and templates to get you started

Possibilities for mapping and diagramming with flowcharts are endless. They can be used for something as simple as documenting a linear process, or as complex as describing a computer algorithm. So, how do you know which type of flowchart to create? It all depends on your goal. Do you need to document a process for new employees? Understand everyone’s roles in a cross-functional project? Visualize the flow of data? There are specific types of flowcharts designed to do each of those jobs — and we’ve rounded up five of the most common for you here. Rather than starting from scratch, use a template to jumpstart your diagramming process. For each type of flowchart, we built an easy-to-use template based on insights from consultants, product teams, project managers — the people who do this every day. ‍

Workflow diagrams

Use a workflow diagram (also called a workflow flowchart) to visualize all the actions and steps needed to complete a project or process.

➡️ Get the workflow template .

Process flowchart template

Use a process flowchart (also called a business process flow or process flow diagram) to visualize all the steps and inputs of a business process to identify opportunities for improvement.

➡️ Get the template

Data flow diagram template

Use a data flow diagram (DFD) to visualize and annotate how data flows within an information system or process.

Swimlane flowchart template

Use a swimlane flowchart, or swimlane diagram, to visualize roles and responsibilities for important projects so that no one feels underwater.

Business process modeling diagram (BPMN) template

Diagram step-by-step actions and inputs in a business process.

Collaborative diagramming made easy with Mural

Anyone can visualize diagrams, flows, processes, and more in Mural to generate great ideas, structure complex processes, and optimize user experiences. Work at the speed of thought alongside teammates, clients, or customers.

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What is a flowchart, flowchart symbols, how to make a flowchart, types of flowcharts, flowchart examples, with smartdraw, you can create many different types of diagrams, charts, and visuals.

A flowchart is a visual representation of the sequence of steps and decisions needed to perform a process. Each step in the sequence is noted within a diagram shape. Steps are linked by connecting lines and directional arrows. This allows anyone to view the flowchart and logically follow the process from beginning to end.

A flowchart is a powerful business tool. With proper design and construction, it communicates the steps in a process very effectively and efficiently.

You'll notice that the flowchart has different shapes. In this case, there are two shapes: those with rounded ends represent the start and end points of the process and rectangles are used to show the interim steps. These shapes are known as flowchart symbols . There are dozens of symbols that can be used in a flowchart. If you're new to flowcharting, it's important to know what they represent before using them. Just as word usage conveys a certain message, flowchart symbols also have specific meaning. Read our complete guide to flowchart symbols.

There are several ways to make a flowchart. Originally, flowcharts were created by hand using pencil and paper. Before the advent of the personal computer, drawing templates made of plastic flowchart shape outlines helped flowchart makers work more quickly and gave their diagrams a more consistent look.

Today's flowcharts are typically created using a flowchart maker .

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Types and Uses of Flowcharts

There are a wide variety of flowchart types . Here are just a few of the more commonly used ones.

• Swimlane flowcharts
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Flowcharts were originally used by industrial engineers to structure work processes such as assembly line manufacturing.

Today, flowcharts are used for a variety of purposes in manufacturing, architecture, engineering, business, technology, education, science, medicine, government, administration and many other disciplines.

Here are some of the ways flowcharts are used today.

• Project planning
• Program or system design through flowchart programming
• Process documentation
• Audit a process for inefficiencies or malfunctions
• Map computer algorithms
• Documenting workflow

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Full-Process Numerical Simulation of Flow, Heat Transfer and Solidification for Hot Stamping Steel Manufactured via Thin Slab Continuous Casting Process

• Original Research Article
• Published: 24 June 2024

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• Jingzhou Lu 1 , 2 ,
• Weiming Pan 1 ,
• Wanlin Wang 1 &
• Kun Dou 1 , 2  

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Thin slab casting and rolling (TSCR) is a near-net-shape manufacturing process and a key development technology in China's iron and steel industry. This study uses cross-scale calculations to analyze the complete process of thin slab casting. The focus is on simulating and predicting the final solidification structure by adjusting process parameters. The aim is to enable further investigation into material performance and establish a foundation for researching deformation and phase transformation. To achieve this, a coupled model has been developed to simulate the entire thin slab casting process, using hot stamping steel as the research subject. The model encompasses fluid flow, heat transfer, and solidification. The study identifies the optimal combination for flow field, temperature distribution, and equiaxed grain ratio within the specified parameter range at a casting speed of 4.0 m/min and a superheat of 40 °C. The aim of the study is to establish an integrated computational materials engineering (ICME) research system for near-net-shape automotive steel casting processes.

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Acknowledgments

The financial supports from the National Key Research and Development Program of China (No. 2021YFB3702401), the National Science Foundation of China (52304360) and the Open Foundation of the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Metallurgy, University of Science and Technology Beijing, China (K22-07) and the Key Research and Development Program of Xiangjiang Laboratory (22XJ01002) are greatly acknowledged.

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Lu, J., Pan, W., Wang, W. et al. Full-Process Numerical Simulation of Flow, Heat Transfer and Solidification for Hot Stamping Steel Manufactured via Thin Slab Continuous Casting Process. Metall Mater Trans B (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11663-024-03177-0

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Published : 24 June 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s11663-024-03177-0

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