Sticky spots are custom connection points you can add to any shape. They give you precise control over where connectors attach, beyond the default connection points.

What Are Sticky Spots?

By default, shapes have automatic connection points along their edges. Sticky spots let you:

  • Define exact positions where connectors should attach
  • Create connection points in the interior of shapes
  • Ensure connectors always attach to specific locations
  • Maintain consistent connection points across similar shapes

Adding Sticky Spots

Using the Sticky Spot Tool

  1. Select the Sticky Spot Tool from the toolbar (or press S)
  2. Click on any shape where you want to add a connection point
  3. A small circle marker appears showing the sticky spot location
  4. Add as many sticky spots as needed

Adding Sticky Spots

Using the Inspector

You can also manage sticky spots through the Inspector:

  1. Select a shape
  2. Open the Inspector panel
  3. Find the Sticky Spots section
  4. Click Add Sticky Spot
  5. Enter precise X/Y coordinates if needed

Connecting to Sticky Spots

Once you've added sticky spots:

  1. Select the Connector Tool (press C)
  2. Click and drag from one shape to another
  3. As you drag near a sticky spot, it highlights
  4. Release to attach the connector to that spot

The connector will snap to the nearest sticky spot when you get close enough.

Connecting to Sticky Spots

Moving Sticky Spots

To reposition an existing sticky spot:

  1. Select the Sticky Spot Tool (press S)
  2. Click and drag the sticky spot marker
  3. The spot moves to the new position
  4. Attached connectors automatically update

Removing Sticky Spots

To delete a sticky spot:

Method 1: Direct Delete

  1. Select the Sticky Spot Tool
  2. Click the sticky spot to select it
  3. Press Delete or Backspace

Method 2: Inspector

  1. Select the shape
  2. Open the Inspector panel
  3. Find the Sticky Spots section
  4. Click the remove button next to the spot

Note: You cannot delete a sticky spot that has connectors attached. Detach all connectors first.

Use Cases

UML Class Diagrams

Add sticky spots at the top and bottom of class boxes for inheritance relationships:

┌─────────────┐
│   Parent    │ ← sticky spot at center bottom
└─────────────┘
       │
       ▼
┌─────────────┐
│    Child    │ ← sticky spot at center top
└─────────────┘

Flowcharts

Add sticky spots at cardinal directions (top, bottom, left, right) for consistent flow:

  • Yes/No branches always exit from left/right
  • Process flow always enters from top, exits from bottom
  • Loops always connect to bottom-left corner

Network Diagrams

Place sticky spots at precise port locations:

  • Server shape with spots at each network interface position
  • Router shape with spots for each port
  • Switch shape with numbered connection points

Sticky Spots Use Cases

Sticky Spots vs. Default Connection Points

FeatureDefault PointsSticky Spots
PlacementAutomatic (edges)Manual (anywhere)
QuantityMany (auto-generated)As many as you add
VisibilityHidden until hoverAlways visible with tool active
ControlLimitedPrecise positioning
Best forQuick connectionsStructured diagrams

Tips

  1. Add spots before connecting - Define your connection points first, then draw connectors
  2. Use consistent positions - Place spots at the same relative position on similar shapes
  3. Combine with Smart Connectors - Sticky spots control attachment points, smart routing handles the path
  4. Keep spots visible during design - Leave the Sticky Spot Tool active while laying out your diagram
  5. Name your shapes - Use text labels to identify which sticky spot connects where

Keyboard Shortcuts

  • S - Activate Sticky Spot Tool
  • Delete - Remove selected sticky spot
  • Esc - Deselect sticky spot