How to check the contrast or legibility of a figure

📝 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.

BioRender includes a built-in View in Grayscale feature that helps you assess the contrast of your illustration. This ensures your figure is easily understandable across various formats and audiences. High-contrast visuals improve accessibility and readability, especially for:

• Low-resolution screens
• Black-and-white printing
• Color-blind viewers

Use grayscale preview to verify that all icons, text, and objects remain visible and do not blend into the background.

For example:

How to View Your Illustration in Grayscale

You can toggle grayscale mode directly from the Canvas using multiple options:

From the top toolbar

1. Click View in the top toolbar.
2. Select Canvas in Grayscale from the dropdown menu.
3. A checkmark will appear next to the option when enabled.
4. To disable, click the Canvas in Grayscale option again.

Using keyboard shortcuts

• Press Alt+G (Windows) or Option+G (Mac) on your keyboard.
• Repeat the shortcut to disable grayscale preview.

Using the “View Canvas in Grayscale” button

• Click the View canvas in grayscale button located on the Canvas.
• Click it again to turn grayscale mode off.

Previewing in grayscale during export

1. Click the blue Export button in the top-right corner of the Canvas.
2. In the export pop-up window, find the Preview in grayscale switch in the bottom-left corner.
3. Toggle the switch to enable or disable grayscale preview.

Troubleshooting

Grayscale preview isn't appearing?

• Make sure you're in the Canvas view with an active illustration open.
• Check if the feature is enabled from one of the methods listed above.
• Refresh your browser if the toggle is unresponsive.

Want to learn more about this feature?

• Hover over the View in Grayscale button and click Learn more about grayscale or the question mark icon that appears.

Related articles

• Exporting illustrations
• Use color presets for shapes with text
• Aligning and distributing objects on the canvas

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.