SmartDraw UML Center

HOW TO DRAW UML DIAGRAMS (cont'd)

Dropping Shapes on a Line

In UML sequence diagrams, activation boxes are linked to vertical lifelines. You will also need to know how to drop shapes on a line for other software diagrams. First, make sure that Allow Shapes to Link to Lines is checked under Options in the SmartDraw Application menu.

SmartDraw shapes link to lines via a special attachment point located by default in the center of the shape. Drag the shape over the line so its center (or attachment point) is near the line. As the shape's attachment point comes in contact with the line, the cursor changes to an anchor, and the connection point appears as a black dot.

Sometimes, the shape rotates 90 degrees when it attaches to a line. To make sure that the shape retains its own angle of rotation, select the line and choose Horizontally under Direction comman on the Paragraph group on the main ribbon.

To break the link between a shape and a line, just drag the shape away from the line.