# Getting started with flowcharts

This article is a quick guide to help you get the most out of Whimsical flowcharts. For a more interactive experience, check out this template: [How to make a Flowchart](https://whimsical.com/how-to-make-a-flowchart-DcDqomwqNHqo2xkPHyVw1n?ref=hc)

## Making a flowchart [Copied!Link to this section](https://whimsical.com/learn/get-started/flowcharts#making-a-flowchart)

There are a few ways to add your diagram/flowchart shapes to your boards:

- Click the "Diagram shapes" icon in the toolbar
- Use the keyboard shortcut **`S`**

**Tip:** Check out [this template](https://whimsical.com/flowchart-shapes-explained-8o4zkomsvrpZPGgG87xtM1?ref=hc) to learn about some of the uses for different flowchart shapes.

## Fun flowchart features [Copied!Link to this section](https://whimsical.com/learn/get-started/flowcharts#fun-flowchart-features)

There are many ways to style your diagram shapes, which you'll find in the **toolbar** including:

- Changing the color and the shape of an element
- Changing outlines
- Adding transparency

[Check out this article for a more in-depth look at customization options.](https://whimsical.com/learn/boards/customize-shapes)

**Tip:** When you add new shapes with the **quick add** buttons, the same styles will be used for the next shape.

It's easy to edit the text as well:

- Increase and decrease font size
- Change the text position
- Apply bold or italic styles

Use the quick add buttons to build a flowchart fast, or try `Option` (Mac) or `Alt` (PC) plus any arrow key to supercharge the process.

Use **auto-layout** to instantly clean up a cluttered flowchart:

1. Select two or more connected shapes on your board
2. In the context bar, choose **Lay out vertically** (top to bottom) or **Lay out horizontally** (left to right)

Whimsical will rearrange the shapes into a clean, structured flow and automatically re-route all connectors.

For more alignment, distribution, and layout options, see [Keeping boards tidy with alignment, distribution, and auto-layout](https://whimsical.com/learn/boards/tidy-boards).

**Tip:** Want to make a flowchart but don't want to start from zero? Try our [**AI-assisted diagramming**](https://whimsical.com/learn/get-started/ai) for a quick head start!

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