How do I add a schematic to my question?

Question

I see some questions and answers here that include schematic drawings. How do I add a schematic to my question (or answer)?

Answer 1

Look up! When you are drafting or editing your question or answer, you will see a toolbar with a number of icons at the top of your Edit area. The toolbar has several icons: B for Bold, images, links, lists, etc. There is also an icon for schematics:

When you click that link (or Control-m from the keyboard), an overlay will appear in your browser. This is the online schematic generator supplied by CircuitLab.

Using the schematic generator is easy. Create your schematic by selecting components in the galley on the left side, dropping them the grid area, and connecting them with wires. Once you've completed your schematic, simply click the Save and Insert button in the upper right corner. This will embed a "link" to your schematic in your Edit area. This link will be rendered as a schematic in your Preview area, and embedded in your Question once you post it.

If you need help using the tool, CircuitLab has several resources, including an online textbook that will get you going. And don't worry too much about minor errors in your schematic as you will be able to edit your schematic: click edit below your question, then once your Edit area opens, click edit the above schematic to reopen your schematic.

This is an incredibly useful tool. If your question involves hardware or wiring, adding a schematic to your question will help others help you by adding clarity and specificity to your question.