4

I know I can use Tikz and insert the source code in TeX. But is there a better way to do it which has a better user interface?

Dr. Manuel Kuehner
  • 22,451
Trect
  • 477

3 Answers3

5

You can use any tool with a graphical user interface and export an image file for use in LaTeX (and LyX). An example is Inkscape, available for Windows/Mac/Linux, which can be used for block diagrams. Export to .eps or .pdf for good results in print and when zoomed. Inkscape also has a nice feature to export to LaTeX, which means that you can use LaTeX symbols, consistent fonts, etc. in your diagram.

Some more options, (including Tikz-related tools), are mentioned in What GUI applications are there to assist in generating graphics for TeX? and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PGF/TikZ#External_links.

Marijn
  • 37,699
4

This is an addition to the already good answer of Marijn.

Direct answer to your question

Maybe have a look at TikzEdt. TikzEdt is a combined WYSIWYG/text editor designed for editing Tikz code [taken from the website].

Indirect answer to your question

Also, you can use other tools like Microsoft Visio (offline) or draw.io (online).

The already mentioned similar question: What GUI applications are there to assist in generating graphics for TeX? leads to more tools:

Dr. Manuel Kuehner
  • 22,451
1

LyX has good integration with Dia. Go to Insert > File > External Material and change the template to "Dia diagram". It is nice to have the integration because LyX knows how to convert a Dia diagram on the fly. So if you edit a .dia file you don't have to remember to re-export it to the corresponding format (because LyX does this automatically for you).

So you can just include a Dia diagram in LyX. And anytime you want, just right-click and go to "Edit Externally". When you save your edits from Dia, everything is taken care of.

Another advantage is that there is a preview in LyX of what your .dia diagram is.

scottkosty
  • 13,164