Diagramming tool that helped me understand codebases much faster
I built Code Canvas, a canvas where we create diagrams and link their components to source code in a two-way mapping: 1. Click on the diagram component to reveal the underlying source code 2. Click on the source code block to reveal which functionality it serves in the big picture on the diagram - The app also has a simulations feature where we can create tutorials and runtime simulations directly on the diagram. - The diagram stays in sync with source code changes. It has a companion scanner that runs on new pull requests to ensure the relevant components of the diagram are updated before…
In plain words
Code Canvas is a diagramming tool for developers that links visual diagrams to source code through two-way mapping. Users can click diagram components to view underlying code, or click code blocks to see their role in the system architecture. The tool includes a simulations feature for creating tutorials and runtime demonstrations directly on diagrams. It automatically keeps diagrams synchronized with code changes through a companion scanner that validates updates on pull requests, helping developers understand complex codebases faster and reduce mental overhead.
written from the facts on this page · September 2026
From the sources
In the maker’s words, at launch
I built Code Canvas, a canvas where we create diagrams and link their components to source code in a two-way mapping: 1. Click on the diagram component to reveal the underlying source code 2. Click on the source code block to reveal which functionality it serves in the big picture on the diagram - The app also has a simulations feature where we can create tutorials and runtime simulations directly on the diagram. - The diagram stays in sync with source code changes. It has a companion scanner that runs on new pull requests to ensure the relevant components of the diagram are updated before merging the PR. This app allowed me to understand code much faster and also offload the mental fatigue of trying to reason up the big picture by browsing through endless lines of code. I recommend clicking the "Learn More" button for a 1-pager summary before you hit the demo button. - App link: https://code-canvas.com - Discord server: https://discord.com/invite/t3ezMyMPqr After the demo go back to the main page to load your repository and start building your diagram! Nasser ------- P.S. This is the first time I am putting the app publicly, so any feedback is appreciated!
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