Which symbol is used to represent the start or end of a flowchart?

In flowcharts, the symbol used to represent the start or end of a process is the oval shape. This symbol, often referred to as the "terminator," clearly indicates where a flowchart begins or concludes. It serves as a visual cue to communicate to the viewer that the information or actions within the flowchart are entering or exiting the process.

Using an oval helps to establish a clean and organized flow within the chart, allowing for smooth transitions between different stages or steps represented by other symbols, such as rectangles for processes, diamonds for decisions, and parallelograms for input/output operations. The distinct shape of the oval makes it easily recognizable, which is essential for clarity in flowchart design.