In a flow chart, what is indicated by an arrow?

In a flow chart, an arrow signifies the flow of the process or the direction in which the sequence of operations is to be followed. It indicates the path that should be taken from one step to the next, guiding the reader through the process being represented. This directional flow is essential for understanding how various components of the flow chart connect with each other and how information or actions move through the system.

In terms of process representation, arrows can connect different types of elements, such as inputs, processes, or decisions, all of which contribute to the overall workflow. Therefore, the role of an arrow in conveying direction is crucial, as it helps clarify the sequence of actions and decisions in the flowchart.

Other options present different functions within a flow chart: input/output refers to specific shapes used for these elements, a process is typically shown within a shape that indicates an operation or action, and start/stop indicates the beginning or end of a flowchart, often represented in specialized symbols. However, none of these elements specifically convey the directional intent that arrows do. Thus, the indicated choice properly highlights the fundamental purpose of arrows in flow chart construction.