Complete guide to all keyboard shortcuts in ArkT for faster diagram creation
Master ArkT with powerful keyboard shortcuts that speed up your workflow. This reference guide covers all available shortcuts across the application.
Work 5-10x faster than using mouse alone
Maintain flow without switching between keyboard and mouse
Build muscle memory for efficient diagramming
Accessible keyboard-first workflow
ArkT adapts keyboard shortcuts based on your operating system:
Use Cmd as the primary modifier key
Use Ctrl as the primary modifier key
All shortcuts listed below show both Mac and Windows/Linux variants where they differ.
Create text node
Create rectangle node
Create circle node
Create diamond node
Trigger the free line tool
Create a virtual node
Create an integration node
Add image node
Toggle eraser mode
Open templates manager
Open create template dialog
Open settings
Open collaboration dialog
Open Arkt Chat
Open export dialog
Open import dialog
Open download image dialog
Open the command palette
Search for nodes
Copy selected items
Paste copied items
Undo last action
Redo last undone action
Delete/Reset diagram
When an edge is selected, you can quickly set its multiplicity values:
Set edge multiplicity (cycles between first and second value when both are filled)
Set edge multiplicity to "N" (cycles between first and second value when both are filled)
How it works:
Understanding these UI elements helps you make the most of keyboard shortcuts:
Floating action bar (top center) - Creates new nodes at canvas center with different shapes (Alternative to "N" keyboard shortcut)
Right sidebar - Shows properties of selected element (Toggle with Cmd/Ctrl + P)
Overlay (center) - Quick access to all commands (Open with Cmd/Ctrl + K)
Top bar - Shows current diagram path (Click to navigate or use Cmd/Ctrl + ↑)
Start small - Learn 3-5 shortcuts at a time, then practice until they become automatic
Focus on frequency - Start with the most frequently used shortcuts (copy, paste, delete, undo)
Keep reference handy - Keep this page open in a separate tab while learning
Practice daily - Consistent use builds muscle memory faster than occasional use
Use keyboard shortcuts during design sessions to quickly build diagrams
Create diagrams without lifting hands from keyboard to maintain concentration
Shortcuts are not customizable in the current version
Some complex operations still require mouse interaction (e.g., precise node positioning)