---
title: Atom labels and R-groups
url: https://www.moldraw.com/docs/drawing/how-to-add-atom-labels-and-r-groups/
section: Draw structures
updated: 2026-10-11
publisher: LabCanvas
---

# Atom labels and R-groups

> Pick the atom label tool (A) and click an atom. Type a label like Ph, COOH or R1. MolDraw can expand known labels into full structures.

1. Click the **Atom label** tool in the left rail.
2. Click an atom.
3. Type a label, such as `Ph`, `COOH`, `Boc` or `R1`.
4. Press `Enter`.

## Expand or collapse a label

Right click a label. Pick **Expand** to show every atom. Pick **Collapse** to go back to the short label.

> **Tip:** Labels MolDraw does not know stay as text. They still show on your figure.

## Questions and answers

**How do I add an R group?**
Use the atom label tool, click an atom and type R, R1 or R2.