TFT

Convert YAML to Graphviz DOT

Visualize your YAML graph data by converting it to Graphviz DOT format. This free tool helps you create diagrams and flowcharts from structured YAML definitions.

YAML to Graphviz DOT

Convert YAML structure to Graphviz DOT format for visualization

How to Use

Copy the DOT output and use it with Graphviz tools like dot, neato, or online viewers like edotor.net

How YAML to Graphviz DOT Conversion Works

YAML to Graphviz DOT conversion transforms YAML-defined graph structures into DOT language syntax. YAML describes nodes, edges, and attributes in a readable format, which converts to DOT commands that Graphviz can render as diagrams.

This tool maps YAML graph definitions to DOT syntax: nodes become node statements, edges become connection statements with arrows, and attributes like labels, colors, and shapes are applied as node/edge properties.

Here's the process:

  1. YAML graph structure is parsed
  2. Nodes are defined with attributes
  3. Edges are created between nodes
  4. DOT syntax output is generated

Example conversion:

YAML Input:
nodes:
  - id: A
    label: Start
  - id: B
    label: End
edges:
  - from: A
    to: B

DOT Output:
digraph {
  A [label="Start"];
  B [label="End"];
  A -> B;
}

When You'd Actually Use This

Flowchart generation

Create flowcharts from YAML definitions. Define process flows in YAML, generate DOT for visualization with Graphviz tools.

Network topology diagrams

Document network structures. Define network nodes and connections in YAML, visualize as topology diagrams.

Organization charts

Generate org charts. Define reporting structures in YAML, create visual org charts for documentation.

Dependency graphs

Visualize dependencies. Define package or module dependencies in YAML, generate dependency visualization.

State machine diagrams

Document state machines. Define states and transitions in YAML, create state diagram visualizations.

Documentation automation

Auto-generate diagrams for docs. Keep diagram definitions in version-controlled YAML, generate images for documentation.

What to Know About DOT Format

DOT is a text description language. DOT describes graphs in text form. Graphviz tools (dot, neato, fdp) render DOT files as images (PNG, SVG, PDF).

Directed vs undirected graphs. Use "digraph" for directed graphs (arrows), "graph" for undirected (lines). Choose based on your data relationships.

Node IDs must be unique. Each node needs a unique identifier. Labels can repeat, but IDs must be distinct within the graph.

Layout is automatic. Graphviz automatically positions nodes. You can hint at positioning, but the engine determines final layout.

Pro tip: Install Graphviz to render DOT files. Use command: dot -Tpng input.dot -o output.png. Many online DOT renderers also exist.

Common Questions

What is Graphviz?

Graphviz is open-source graph visualization software. It reads DOT files and renders them as diagrams in various formats (PNG, SVG, PDF, etc.).

How do I render the DOT output?

Install Graphviz, then use: dot -Tpng file.dot -o output.png. Or use online renderers like edotor.net or dreampuf.github.io/GraphvizOnline.

Can I customize node appearance?

Yes. DOT supports many attributes: shape, color, style, font, etc. The converter passes through YAML-defined attributes to DOT output.

Does it support subgraphs?

Yes. YAML can define subgraphs/clusters for grouping nodes. These become subgraph blocks in DOT for visual grouping.

What graph types are supported?

Both directed (digraph) and undirected (graph) graphs. Choose based on whether your relationships have direction (arrows) or not.

Can I create complex diagrams?

Yes. DOT supports complex graphs with many nodes, edges, clusters, and custom attributes. YAML structure scales to handle complexity.

Is my data secure?

Yes. All conversion happens locally in your browser. Your YAML and DOT content never leave your computer.

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