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How to Use Auto Layout in Planera's Canvas

Apply automatic layout algorithm to elements on the canvas to make the canvas look better

Latest Update: 8-17-2026

Use Auto Layout to quickly organize elements on the Canvas when it becomes cluttered. Instead of manually adjusting each element, Auto Layout offers predefined layout suggestions to help you clean up and structure the view efficiently.

How to use auto layout

  1. Hold Ctrl (Cmd on Mac), click somewhere blank on canvas, and drag to select elements using the Lasso

    You can also use Ctrl+A to select everything on Canvas


  2. Right click within the blue selection area and choose "Auto Layout"

  3. The feature suggests four layout options. Select one and click 'Apply'


    Pro Tip: If you are not satisfied with the layout, you can press CTRL+Z to undo it and start over

Pin Hidden Connections

You can manually 'Pin' a connector if that is important for your project.

  1. Left click on the Relationship Summary box to show hidden connections

    The summary box is a rounded square off the corner of a group or activity with the number of connections in the center

  2. Right click on the connection you want to pin and choose "Pin Connection"

    Right click on the connection again to Unpin

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Auto Layout do?
Auto Layout automatically organizes selected elements on the Canvas using one of four predefined layout suggestions, so you don't have to manually reposition everything by hand.

How do I select the elements I want to organize?
Hold Ctrl (Cmd on Mac) and drag to lasso-select elements, or press Ctrl+A to select everything on the Canvas.

What if I don't like the layout Auto Layout applies?
Press Ctrl+Z to undo the layout and try a different option.

What is a Pinned Connection?
Pinning keeps a specific connector visible even when it would otherwise be hidden. Right-click the Relationship Summary box to reveal hidden connections, then right-click the connection itself and choose "Pin Connection." Right-click again to unpin it.

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