Final answer:
In generic programming, a placeholder for a data type is signified by angle brackets, with an identifier placed between them, known as type parameters.
Step-by-step explanation:
A generic program utilizes a placeholder for a data type that is determined at compile-time. This placeholder is commonly represented by a pair of angle brackets (<>), with an identifier, which generally denotes the type, placed between them. These placeholders are known as type parameters or type variables and are a fundamental component of generic programming, allowing for the creation of flexible and reusable code that can work with any data type.