Organize items with lines

/ Add and edit Items to a board / Organize items with lines

Lines (connectors) can visually connect different items pinned to the board, such as shapes, notes, photographs, or documents. This is particularly useful for creating a visual map or a flowchart.  For brainstorming sessions, strings can help in forming associations between different ideas or concepts, aiding in creative thinking and idea development.

To use the described feature on an iPadOS or macOS device, first extend the shelf on the left side of the screen. On an iPhone, the shelf extends from the bottom instead. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Accessing the Connector Item: Tap on the connector item located in the shelf. This will cause the item to animate and move to the center of the canvas.
  2. Attach a Connector to items: After the connector item is added to the canvas drag the ends to items.  The endpoints to lines will be automatically connected to the item.  The line end item will attach to the items border.
  3. Edit the Connector: Select the connector to edit it's properties.  Users may add text boxes to a connector and drag them to any position.  Connectors have three types of lines: elbow, strait and cuved.  A connector properties also include, line type, color, width and end items.

Connector Tips

  • Change a Curve in a Curved Line: Select a curved line, and drag the center circle changing a line's curve.
  • Connecting Items: To connect items, long-press on an item until it glows. Then, drag a string/connector to another item. Alternatively, select two items and connect them using the pin button in the navigation bar. There's also a setting in the board's settings to choose the type of connections.
  • Drag a new Connector from another Connector:  Users may long press for a few seconds at the end of a connnector to drag out another.
  • Creating Similar Items: To quickly create an item similar to one you've just made, use the keyboard shortcut ⇧⌘N.
  • Automation:  Use shortcuts to automate adding connector to boards.