A step-by-step Gephi Quick Start Guide outlines the essential workflow for creating network visualizations. It guides users through importing data, applying structural layouts, calculating statistical metrics, and exporting presentation-ready network graphs.
Gephi operates across three primary workspaces: Overview (for design and mapping), Data Laboratory (for inspecting data tables), and Preview (for final visual polish). Step 1: Prepare Your Data
Gephi relies on relational datasets consisting of two separate spreadsheets:
Nodes Table: A list containing at least an ID column (unique identifier) and an optional Label column (display names).
Edges Table: A list of relationships containing Source and Target columns, which use the exact IDs from your nodes table. Ensure both files are saved in CSV or Excel formats. Step 2: Import Files into Gephi Open Gephi and select New Project. Navigate to the Data Laboratory tab at the top. Click Import Spreadsheet.
Select your Nodes CSV first, ensuring Gephi imports it as a “Nodes table”.
Repeat the process for your Edges CSV, ensuring it imports as an “Edges table”.
Confirm whether your graph is Directed (one-way relationships) or Undirected (mutual relationships) on the summary screen. Step 3: Run Graph Layouts
When first loaded, your nodes will appear in a chaotic, random square. Layout algorithms give the graph structural meaning by using physical simulation rules (e.g., pulling connected nodes closer and pushing unconnected ones apart). Quickstart – Gephi – The Open Graph Viz Platform
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