ChemSketch: How to draw an arrow for a null reaction in ChemSketch

Description

Null reactions (no reaction occurred) are often indicated using a crossed-out reaction arrow. ChemSketch doesn’t provide a built-in “null reaction” symbol, but you can easily construct one and save it as a reusable template.

Solution

1. In Structure mode, click Reaction Arrow . Click and drag inside the drawing area to add the reaction arrow.
2. In Draw mode:
   • From the top left toolbar, click Line and draw lines or a cross on the reaction arrow in the style required.

OR

• Click one of Text  , Artistic Text , or Edit Text . Type an X and position it over the arrow.

3. Click Select/Move/Resize and make a selection box around the arrow and its associated lines or text.

Note: the selection box must be bigger than the text box when selecting.

4. On the Editing toolbar, click Group . The null reaction arrow will become a single, resizable object.
5. From the Templates menu, choose Save User Template.
6. Name your template and save it to a known location.

7. Click OK. The null reaction arrow is available as template.

   

An example of a null-reaction arrow created in ChemSketch.