You can add a flowchart to a Google Docs document with the built-in drawing window. Use shapes for steps and decisions, connect them with arrows, and save the drawing into the document. The steps below describe Google Docs in a desktop browser.
Part 1. How to Create a Flowchart in Google Docs
Open a document in Google Docs and use Insert → Drawing → New. Google’s drawing instructions explain how to add shapes, lines, and text.
Step 1. Go to https://docs.google.com/document/ and click "Blank" to start a new document.
Step 2. Click "Insert" from the above menu bar and then click Drawing > + New.
Step 3. In the pop-up drawing window, click the "Shapes" icon and select the shape.
Step 4. Drag on the drawing canvas to size the shape. Add a rectangle for a process and a diamond where the flow branches into a decision.
Step 5. Name the shapes by double-clicking them and then entering the text.
Step 6. Click the drop-down menu next to the "Line" icon and select "Arrow".
Step 7. Now press and drag the mouse between two shapes to connect them. Continue doing so until all shapes are connected.
Step 8. Once the flowchart is completed, click the "Save and close" button from the top. It will take you to the main document screen that now has your flowchart. Afterward, you can download the file or even share it with others.
To revise the flowchart later, select the drawing in the document and open its editing controls.
Part 2. Create a Flowchart on a Shared Canvas
Google Docs is convenient when the diagram belongs inside a document. For a larger process map, a shared canvas gives the diagram and discussion more room. Boardmix combines diagramming tools, templates, and comments in one workspace.
Start from a flowchart template, rename the steps, and connect the shapes in the correct order. Place notes beside the steps they explain and invite teammates to review unclear decisions or missing paths.
Useful Boardmix options for this task include:
- It is a dedicated online flowchart diagramming tool.
- It provides multiple customizable flowchart templates.
- A Free plan for smaller boards, with limits on editable boards, objects, and storage. See the plan comparison.
- It allows exporting diagrams as PDF, PNG, and JPG files.
- Real-time collaboration with sharing permissions for viewing and editing.
- Version history, with the number of available records depending on the plan.
- Export options such as PDF, PNG, JPG, SVG, and BDX; choose the available format and quality for your workspace.
- Other visual structures, including mind maps, SWOT analysis, timelines, and organizational charts.
- Browser access for working on a diagram without installing the desktop application.
A document drawing is often enough for a small illustration. A canvas is useful when the flowchart grows or several people need to discuss it in context.
Part 3. Flowchart Examples to Adapt
These three examples show different uses of process shapes and decisions. Adapt the steps to the actual process you want to explain.
1. Lamp Repair Flowchart
2. E-commerce Shopping Process Flowchart
3. Patient Checkup Flowchart
Part 4. FAQs about Google Flowchart
Q1. Can I make a flowchart in Google Sheets? How?
In Google Sheets on a computer, open Insert → Drawing and arrange shapes and lines in the drawing window. Save the drawing into the sheet when it is ready. Menu labels can differ from the Google Docs sequence above.
Q2. Is Lucidchart owned by Google?
Lucidchart is a product of Lucid Software. Its Google Workspace integrations connect it with supported Google tools; an integration does not imply ownership by Google.
Q3. What program is best for creating flowcharts?
Use Google Docs for a flowchart embedded in a document. Use a dedicated diagramming or whiteboard tool when you need a larger canvas, reusable templates, or a different collaboration workflow. Compare the formats and permissions required by the people using the result.
Key points
Draw the main path first, add decision branches, and check that every arrow leads somewhere meaningful. In Google Docs, save the drawing back into the document. In a shared workspace such as Boardmix, keep comments and supporting notes close to the relevant steps.
