Graphviz Graph to Text Diagram
Graphviz is the gold standard for describing graphs in code — but its output is typically SVG or PNG, which cannot be embedded in plain-text files, code comments, or terminal output. Text diagrams solve this problem by representing the same graph structure using ASCII characters (+, -, |, > and box-drawing chars) that render correctly in any monospace font.
This tool converts your Graphviz DOT source directly to a text diagram in the browser. No Graphviz installation required. The conversion runs entirely in JavaScript — your DOT code never leaves your device.
Common uses: embedding architecture diagrams in README files, annotating code with flow diagrams, generating documentation that works without image hosting, and creating diagrams that survive copy-paste into Slack or email.
How to use
- Paste your Graphviz DOT language graph into the input field on the main tool page.
- Select a layout engine — dot for hierarchical graphs, neato or fdp for force-directed layouts.
- Click Convert to ASCII, then click Copy to paste the ASCII diagram wherever you need it.