Merge and extract symbols (the flowchart triangles)
Flowcharts use two triangles. Pointing down, the triangle is the merge symbol: several flows or sets of items combine into one. Pointing up, it is the extract symbol: part of a set is taken out and handled separately. They come from data processing, where files were merged and split, and they still read naturally for batches of paperwork, orders or stock.
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Use the downward triangle where separate streams of items come together and continue as one: orders from three channels merged into one fulfilment queue, signed forms from several branches collected into one batch.
It is about items, not paths. When two branches of a decision simply rejoin, no symbol is needed: let both arrows lead into the next step.
Extract: part of a set split out
The upward triangle is the reverse: from one set, some items are taken out for different handling. "Pull the overdue invoices", "Separate damaged items", "Select the orders over the credit limit".
- Merge (point down): two or more inputs, one output.
- Extract (point up): one input, a part of it taken out.
- Paths that branch on a question are decisions, not extracts.
- In program and inventory flowcharts the downward triangle can also mean storage, so add a label when it could be read either way.
Merge and extract in ProcessFlowchart.app
Set a row's Shape column to Triangle (inverted) for merge, or Triangle for extract, and the symbol is drawn in place and connected for you. For two decision branches that simply rejoin, list the same next step in both rows' Line To column instead.
Frequently asked questions
What does an upside-down triangle mean in a flowchart?
Merge: two or more flows or sets of items combined into one. In older program and inventory charts it can also mean offline storage, so label it if there is any doubt.
What does a triangle pointing up mean in a flowchart?
Extract: part of a set is taken out and handled separately, such as pulling the overdue invoices from a batch.
Do I need a merge symbol when two branches join again?
No. When the branches of a decision come back together, point both arrows at the next step. The merge symbol is for combining sets of items, not for rejoining paths.
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