Creating and editing flowcharts
A flowchart is mainly about sequence, decisions, roles, and exception paths. Work out the process logic first and adjust the layout second — the result will be far clearer than simply placing shapes.
Break down the process before drawing
Mark out the start, actions, decisions, outcomes, and exception paths first, then place each step in a node. Keep node text short and put complex explanations beside it.
Steps
- 1Create process nodes
Use shapes or the flowchart tool to create start, process, decision, and end nodes.
- 2Connect the nodes
Drag a connector from the source node's endpoint and use a snap point as you approach the target node to form a stable connection.
- 3Label branch conditions
Add yes/no or business conditions to the outgoing paths of decision nodes so readers do not have to guess what a path means.
- 4Check exception paths
From every decision node, check whether failure, retry, rollback, or manual-handling paths are missing.
FAQ
Why should flowchart connectors snap?
Snapping keeps line endpoints attached when nodes move, which avoids broken or misaligned connections when you adjust the layout later.
Do flowcharts work well with Mermaid?
Yes. Generate the structure quickly with Mermaid, then adjust the layout, endpoints, and extra notes on the canvas.