json-canvas

To create an Obsidian canvas file, you structure a .canvas JSON file with a base of {"nodes": [], "edges": []}, then populate it with typed nodes like text, file, link, or group, and connect them using directional edges. This enforces the JSON Canvas structure and ensures unique IDs for visual planning.

The JSON Canvas format is a structured, portable file format used to model visual diagrams with nodes and edges inside Obsidian. It enables quick creation, editing, and sharing of ideas for use cases like mind maps, flowcharts, project boards, and project roadmaps embedded in notes.

Yes, you can validate node and edge references in a .canvas file. The process enforces the JSON Canvas structure, ensures unique IDs, validates node and edge references, and maintains consistent references across the canvas and related assets to prevent broken diagrams.

You add directional anchors and optional labels to canvas edges by defining connection properties between nodes in the JSON structure. This models relationships accurately within your visual diagrams, allowing you to create complex flowcharts and mind maps inside Obsidian.

Yes, this approach works for building project roadmaps and mind maps in Obsidian. You can apply this structured JSON format to design workflows by adding typed nodes and connecting them with edges, enabling visual planning and documentation directly inside your notes.

When editing JSON Canvas files directly, you must manually enforce the JSON structure and ensure unique IDs for all elements. Limitations include the risk of breaking node and edge references if the JSON is not validated properly, requiring careful editing to maintain consistent canvas assets.