tikz

# TikZ Diagram Skill ## How to Use **Step 1.** Write a `.tex` file in the project directory using the Write tool: ```latex \usetikzlibrary{arrows.meta, positioning} \begin{tikzpicture} \node[circle, draw] (a) {A}; \node[circle, draw, right=of a] (b) {B}; \draw[->] (a) -- (b); \end{tikzpicture} ``` **Step 2.** Pass the file path to the render script: ```bash python3 /Users/karlchen/.claude/skills/tikz/scripts/render_tikz.py <path-to-tex-file> ``` Output is two lines: the URL and the local PNG file path. Each render gets a unique timestamp, so re-running the same file produces a new URL. **Step 3.** Spawn a subagent to verify the rendering result and iterate if needed: ``` Use the Agent tool to spawn a subagent with this prompt: "Read the PNG image at <png-path> and the TikZ source at <tex-path>. Verify the rendering quality: - Is any text overlapping or cut off? - Are elements too crowded or poorly spaced? - Are arrows and connections clear? - Is the overall layout readable? If issues are found, edit the .tex file to fix them (increase node distance, adjust font size, reposition elements, etc.), then re-render: python3 /Users/karlchen/.claude/skills/tikz/scripts/render_tikz.py <tex-path> Read the new PNG and verify again. Repeat until the result looks good. Return the final URL." ``` **Step 4.** Return the final URL from the subagent to the user. **Do NOT:** - Call `ensure_server.py` — the render script handles server internally - Open the URL with `open` command or browser tools ## Embedding in Plan Documents When creating diagrams for a plan or markdown document, render the diagram first, then use the relative URI as a markdown image: ```markdown  ``` Use relative URI (e.g. `/name.svg`), not absolute URL or local file path. The plan viewer will display the image inline. ## TikZ Tips - Write partial code (just `\begin{tikzpicture}...\end{tikzpicture}` + `\usetikzlibrary` / `\usepackage` lines) — auto-wrapped in `standalone` document - Or write a full document with `\documentclass` — used as-is - Use `positioning` library for `right=of` syntax - Use `arrows.meta` for modern arrow styles ## Temp Markdown Preview The preview server hosts a `/temp/` directory for viewing arbitrary markdown files (translations, notes, etc.). Submit content via the script (similar to `render_tikz.py`): ```bash # Copy a file into temp preview python3 /Users/karlchen/.claude/skills/tikz/scripts/submit_temp.py <path-to-file> # Symlink instead of copy (good for large files or live-editing) python3 /Users/karlchen/.claude/skills/tikz/scripts/submit_temp.py --link <path> # Symlink a directory python3 /Users/karlchen/.claude/skills/tikz/scripts/submit_temp.py --link /path/to/docs/ # Custom name python3 /Users/karlchen/.claude/skills/tikz/scripts/submit_temp.py --name translated.md <path> ``` Output is two lines: the preview URL and the path in the temp directory. The script ensures the server is running automatically. - `.md` files are rendered with full markdown viewer (e-ink / normal / eyecare modes, TOC, auto-refresh) - Directories get an auto-generated index page - Other files are served as static downloads **Do NOT** manipulate the temp directory directly — always use the script. ## Error Recovery Compilation errors are printed to stderr. Read the error, fix the `.tex` file, re-render. ## Prerequisites Before first use, read [setup.md](setup.md) and follow both steps: 1. Install dependencies (tectonic + pdf2svg) 2. Ask the user if they want to configure host, port, or default view mode ## Server Management Server runs automatically. To stop (only when user explicitly asks): ```bash python3 /Users/karlchen/.claude/skills/tikz/scripts/ensure_server.py --stop ```