Flowcharts are used to represent algorithms and processes using graphical symbols. They contain symbols that represent actions, decisions, or connections between steps. The key flowchart structures are sequence, selection, and repetition. Sequence shows steps executed in order. Selection, or decision, determines which steps occur based on a condition being true or false. Repetition allows steps to be repeated as long as a condition is met. These basic structures can be combined to model complex processes and algorithms.