Build with code
Where code becomes visual
Write Mermaid syntax in your editor, version diagrams in Git, and let Mermaid handle the layout.
Write diagrams as code*
Describe systems in Mermaid’s Markdown-style syntax and generate diagrams automatically.
Skip manual formatting
No dragging boxes or fixing arrows. Your text defines the logic and Mermaid handles the layout.
Keep visuals in sync with your code
Edit your logic in text or diagrams— changes update both so docs and visuals never go stale.
Extend your editor
From VS Code to Confluence, our plugins keep diagrams alongside your code, no switching tools required.
Version control your diagrams
Because they’re text-based, Mermaid diagrams fit naturally into Git workflows.
Use AI to speed diagramming
Use @mermaid-chart in GitHub Copilot Chat to save time and avoid syntax errors.
*Mermaid’s Markdown-style syntax is clear and readable, so no technical skills are required. Want to learn how to write it yourself? Check out our docs.
See your code in context
Visualize what matters most to build, document, review, and innovate.
Map your software architecture
See how your systems fit together before (and after) you build.
Plan cloud infrastructure and map AWS, Azure, or GCP services in minutes
Spot dependencies that could cause bottlenecks later
Explain architecture to teammates and stakeholders clearly in reviews, proposals, or documentation
Mermaid recommends:
Flowcharts, C4 diagrams, architecture diagrams
Document your code
Make your codebase easier to understand and maintain.
Explain communication flow between systems with sequence diagrams that show messages between the entities
Embed diagrams in READMEs or attach them to specific code files so teammates can find them right where they work
Reduce onboarding time by giving new engineers or consultants entering a new codebase a clear, AI-generated overview
Mermaid recommends:
Sequence diagrams, Class diagrams, Architecture diagrams (C4), ER diagrams
Model your databases
See how your data connects — and share that picture with your team.
Design schemas before coding to avoid costly rework
See how tables, keys, and constraints fit together without digging through SQL
Share data flows and ownership so teammates and stakeholders stay on the same page
Mermaid recommends:
ER diagrams
Track ownership and dependencies
Convey who owns what and how your system really works.
Visualize code ownership to know who maintains each package
Uncover hidden dependencies before they become blockers
Simplify code reviews and handoffs with clear, up-to-date visuals
Mermaid recommends:
Flowcharts, Git graphs
Map your software architecture
See how your systems fit together before (and after) you build.
Plan cloud infrastructure and map AWS, Azure, or GCP services in minutes
Spot dependencies that could cause bottlenecks later
Explain architecture to teammates and stakeholders clearly in reviews, proposals, or documentation
Mermaid recommends:
Flowcharts, C4 diagrams, architecture diagrams
Document your code
Make your codebase easier to understand and maintain.
Explain communication flow between systems with sequence diagrams that show messages between the entities
Embed diagrams in READMEs or attach them to specific code files so teammates can find them right where they work
Reduce onboarding time by giving new engineers or consultants entering a new codebase a clear, AI-generated overview
Mermaid recommends:
Sequence diagrams, Class diagrams, Architecture diagrams (C4), ER diagrams
Model your databases
See how your data connects — and share that picture with your team.
Design schemas before coding to avoid costly rework
See how tables, keys, and constraints fit together without digging through SQL
Share data flows and ownership so teammates and stakeholders stay on the same page
Mermaid recommends:
ER diagrams
Track ownership and dependencies
Convey who owns what and how your system really works.
Visualize code ownership to know who maintains each package
Uncover hidden dependencies before they become blockers
Simplify code reviews and handoffs with clear, up-to-date visuals
Mermaid recommends:
Flowcharts, Git graphs
Turn Markdown into diagrams
01.
Use Mermaid's Markdown-style syntax directly in VS Code, the Live Editor, or the Visual Editor after login.
02.
Diagrams render live as you type – in VS Code, JetBrains, or the Live Editor. Watch your architecture, workflows, or data models take shape immediately.
03.
Edit the text or use Mermaid AI for adjustments. Diagrams update automatically, ensuring clarity and consistency.
04.
Store diagrams as plain text in your repo, track changes, and roll back just like any other code.
Want to dive deeper?
Check out Mermaid's documentation for syntax guides, chart references, and examples to get you started.
Fast, accurate, editable, and actionable
Describe your idea and get a diagram you can refine, then share with your team instantly.
FAQ
Have questions about building diagrams with code? These should help.
