In a flowchart, which shape is typically used to denote an operation step?

• A. Process
• B. Input/Output
• C. Decision
• D. Terminator

Answer: (A)

In flowcharts, an operation or task is represented by a rectangle (often called a process box). This shape indicates a transformation or action performed on data, such as "calculate total," "update record," or "print report." Arrows connect the steps to show the flow of the process. The other shapes serve different roles: an input/output shape shows data entering or leaving the system, a decision shape (diamond) introduces a branch based on a condition, and an oval marks the start or end of the process. So the rectangle is used for the actual operation step because it directly conveys that a specific task is being executed.