Which symbol is typically used to denote a resistor in a schematic?

• A. A rectangle
• B. A circle with the letter R
• C. A zigzag line
• D. A coil

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that the zigzag line is the standard symbol used to denote a resistor in schematic diagrams. This shape has become the quick, recognizable shorthand for resistance, so it clearly identifies a two-terminal passive component whose value is given in ohms. It helps distinguish resistors from other parts: a coil represents an inductor, a circle with an R isn’t a standard symbol for a resistor, and a simple rectangle can be used in some international (IEC) drawings but isn’t the most familiar symbol in many teaching contexts. While you might see a rectangular resistor in some diagrams, the zigzag form is the most widely used and instantly recognizable in basic electronics schematics.