---
title: Draw atoms
url: https://www.moldraw.com/docs/drawing/how-to-draw-atoms-and-change-elements/
section: Draw structures
updated: 2026-10-11
publisher: LabCanvas
---

# Draw atoms

> Pick an element in the atom palette, then click the canvas or the end of a bond. Click an atom to change it. Use the periodic table for other elements.

1. Click an element in the atom palette, for example **N**.
2. Click an empty spot to place it. Or click an atom to change it.
3. For other elements, click the grid button and pick from the periodic table.

## Keyboard tricks

- With nothing selected, press a letter like `N` or `O` to set the element.
- With one atom selected, type a symbol to rename it. Type `Cl` or `Br` for two letters.
- Type groups like `Me`, `Ph` or `OMe` too.

## Change an atom

Right click an atom. You can set the element, isotope, charge, explicit H, lone pairs and radicals.

> **Tip:** The **A** button places an "any atom". It is the same as `*` in SMILES.

## Questions and answers

**How do I add a chlorine atom?**
Click Cl in the atom palette and click the atom. Or select the atom and type Cl.

**How do I add an isotope like deuterium?**
Right click the atom and pick Isotope.