figure.create_tikz_from_description

Purpose

• Convert images or textual descriptions into publication-quality TikZ LaTeX code Generate a compilable LaTeX file, render it to PNG, and iteratively refine the output to match the input precisely

When to Use

Use this skill when you need to:

• Create publication-quality diagrams, plots, or visualizations
• Convert hand-drawn sketches or existing images into reproducible TikZ code
• Generate diagrams for inclusion in LaTeX documents

When NOT to Use

Do not use this skill for:

• Complex photographs requiring photorealistic rendering
• Plots from large datasets (use dedicated plotting libraries instead)
• Diagrams requiring advanced 3D visualization

Workflow

Step 1: Generate TikZ Code

Generate valid LaTeX code using the TikZ package. Wrap the code in a complete minimal working example:

\documentclass{standalone}
\usepackage{tikz}
\begin{document}
\begin{tikzpicture}
...
\end{tikzpicture}
\end{document}

Preserve layout accurately

• If converting from an image <image>, reproduce the layout precisely
• Preserve proportions, relative positions, and symmetry
• Use coordinates and scaling where appropriate
• Approximate complex curves with TikZ paths when needed

Use appropriate TikZ features

• Nodes for labeled elements
• draw, fill, shade for shapes
• Arrows and edge styles for connections
• Rounded corners for blocks: [rounded corners=1cm]
• positioning and calc libraries if helpful

Keep code clean and readable

• Use indentation for nested structures
• Define reusable styles for repeated elements

Handle ambiguity

• Make reasonable assumptions about unclear inputs
• Prioritize clarity and visual correctness over perfection

Step 2: Save the File

• Save the generated LaTeX code to ./tikz_figure.tex in the current directory (not in .claude/). Output only valid TikZ code without markdown formatting or explanations

Step 3: Render to Image

• Generate a PNG image using the rendering script:

  > ./helpers_root/dev_scripts_helpers/documentation/dockerized_tikz_to_bitmap.py \
      -i tikz_figure.tex \
      -o output.png
  

• Open the generated image to inspect the output:

  > open output.png
  

Step 4: Iterate and Refine

Compare the generated PNG to the original input. If there are significant differences:

• Identify layout discrepancies
• Update ./tikz_figure.tex to better match the input
• Re-render and verify the result

Examples

• Good: Converting a circuit diagram sketch into TikZ with accurate node positioning, labeled connections, and proper symmetry
• Bad: Attempting to convert a photograph of a natural scene into TikZ (infeasible; use image inclusion instead)