How to copy and paste in BioRender

📝 Note: This article reflects the classic BioRender canvas. For guidance on the updated experience, check out our article on the new canvas to explore key features and updates in the latest version.

Need to duplicate icons, grouped objects, lines, or images in BioRender? You can easily copy and paste within one illustration or between different ones. This guide covers all the ways to do so, including keyboard shortcuts and helpful tips.

Note: BioRender objects can’t be directly pasted into external apps (like PowerPoint). To use objects elsewhere, export your figure.

Copy and paste within BioRender

To copy and paste within a single illustration:

1. Select the object(s) you want to copy.
2. Use one of the following:
   
   
   • Press Ctrl + C (Windows) or Cmd + C (Mac), then
   • Press Ctrl + V or Cmd + V to paste,
   • Or go to Edit > Copy, then Edit > Paste.

Additional shortcuts:

• Alt + Drag (Windows) or Option + Drag (Mac): Creates a copy while moving the object.
• Ctrl + Shift + V (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + V (Mac): Pastes the object in the same location ("paste in place").

Copy and paste between BioRender illustrations

To duplicate objects across two illustrations:

1. Open both illustrations in separate browser windows.
2. Use the standard copy and paste method (Ctrl/Cmd + C, then Ctrl/Cmd + V) between the windows.

Copying images from other websites into BioRender

You can bring in image files like PNG, JPG, EPS, or SVG directly into BioRender from external websites.

To do this:

1. Find the image you want online.
2. Copy the image (Ctrl/Cmd + C).
3. Paste it into BioRender (Ctrl/Cmd + V).
4. Name the image for easier searching later.
5. Click Upload to finalize.
6. The image will appear directly on your canvas. 

Note: The uploaded images are saved in Uploads ⬆on the left toolbar for later use.

Need help?

If you have any questions or concerns:

1. Email Support: support@biorender.com
2. Live Chat: Available by clicking on the "Help" bubble in the app on the bottom right-hand corner.