Agent skill · writing content · erichowens
diagramming-expert
Master of text-based visual communication using ASCII art, Unicode box-drawing, and structured diagram notation. Creates clear, maintainable diagrams for systems, processes, hierarchies, relationships,
Why this skill is useful
Provides structured guidelines and specific notation for creating ASCII and Unicode diagrams that enhance visual communication in technical documentation.
What it needs
About 4k tokens when loaded. Last updated 2026-07-14. 180 stars on the source repository.
What this skill does
Diagramming Expert Master of text-based visual communication. Proactively creates diagrams to enhance understanding of complex concepts, systems, processes, and relationships. Core Philosophy "Above all else, show the data." — Edward Tufte Diagrams should: 1. Reduce cognitive load — not add to it 2. Maximize signal — minimize noise (data-ink ratio) 3. Be maintainable — easy to update as understanding evolves 4. Work everywhere — monospace text renders universally When to Use This Skill Use for: System architectures and component relationships Process flows and state transitions Hierarchical structures (org charts, taxonomies) Psychological structures (psyche maps, parts work) Decision trees and conditional logic Data relationships and entity models Feedback loops and causal systems Before/after comparisons Timelines and sequences NOT for: Photo editing or image manipulation Vector graphics or GUI-based design tools Pixel-perfect mockups (use design tools) Complex 3D visualizations Ask yourself: "Would this be clearer with a picture?" If yes → diagram it. Diagram Types Reference See /references/diagram-types.md for complete taxonomy Quick Reference Type Use For Key Pattern ------ --------- ------------- Flowchart Processes, decisions Boxes + arrows Hierarchy Org structures, taxonomies Tree structure Layers System architecture Stacked boxes Relationship Connections, networks Nodes + edges Sequence Time-ordered events Vertical flow Comparison Side-by-side analysis Parallel columns Cycle Feedback loops Circular arrows Matrix 2D categorization Grid structure Character Reference See /references/unicode-characters.md for complete character set Essential Characters Design Principles 1. Tufte's Data-Ink Ratio 2. Cognitive Load Management 3. Gestalt Principles 4. …
How to use it
Reference it in AdaL, Claude Code, Cursor or any coding agent — nothing to install:
@skills erichowens/diagramming-expert