mermaid-diagrams

Generate software diagrams from text using Mermaid syntax.

1|Updated Apr 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jrmatherly/shipit --skill mermaid-diagrams-jrmatherly
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: mermaid-diagrams
Source: https://github.com/jrmatherly/shipit/tree/main/.claude/skills/mermaid-diagrams
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jrmatherly/shipit --skill mermaid-diagrams-jrmatherly

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Teams and developers need a reliable, text-first way to create, maintain, and version software diagrams without relying on manual drawing tools. Mermaid syntax turns diagramming into code that can be reviewed, diffed, and stored alongside source files to keep architecture and documentation synchronized.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Text-based Diagram Generation: Produce class diagrams, sequence diagrams, flowcharts, ER diagrams, C4 architecture views, state diagrams, git graphs, Gantt charts, and common chart types from concise textual definitions.
  • Configuration & Theming: Control themes, colors, layout engines (dagre, ELK), and look options to ensure consistent styling across documentation and presentations.
  • Export & Integration: Guidance for rendering and exporting to PNG/SVG, embedding in Markdown, integrating with editors and CI, and using CLI or Docker-based renderers for automated pipelines.
  • Advanced Styling & Accessibility: Support for custom theme variables, node/link styling, interactive links/tooltips, accessibility recommendations, and performance tips for large diagrams.
  • Use Case: Model system architecture for a microservices platform with a C4 Container diagram, then drill into component and class diagrams for implementation detail and export artifacts for the docs site.

Quick Start

Ask the assistant to generate a Mermaid class diagram for your domain model listing entities, key attributes, and relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions about mermaid-diagrams

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I create version-controllable software diagrams from text?

You can create version-controllable software diagrams from text by writing Mermaid syntax definitions for class, sequence, and flowchart diagrams. This allows diagramming as code that can be reviewed, diffed, and stored alongside source files.

Can I generate C4 architecture and ERD diagrams using Mermaid?

Yes, Mermaid supports generating C4 architecture views and entity-relationship (ERD) diagrams. You can model microservices platforms with C4 Container diagrams and define database schemas using ERD syntax.

How do I configure layout engines and themes for Mermaid diagrams?

Mermaid diagrams can be configured with layout engines like dagre and ELK, alongside custom theme variables and colors. This ensures consistent styling across documentation and presentations.

How do I export Mermaid diagrams to PNG or SVG for documentation?

Mermaid diagrams can be exported to PNG and SVG formats using CLI or Docker-based renderers. These renderers integrate into CI pipelines for automated artifact generation and embedding in Markdown docs.

What is the best way to maintain architecture diagrams alongside source code?

The best way to maintain architecture diagrams alongside source code is using text-first Mermaid definitions. This keeps architecture and documentation synchronized without relying on manual drawing tools.

Are there limitations when rendering large Mermaid flowcharts?

Large Mermaid flowcharts may encounter performance limitations, but you can apply interactive links, tooltips, and performance tips to manage complexity. Accessibility recommendations are also available to improve usability.