---
title: "Node Basics"
description: "Learn about inputs and outputs, how to make connections between nodes, and the common starter nodes."
url: https://help.beegraphy.com/en/articles/59-node-basics
collection: "Tutorial"
updated: 2025-12-01
language: en
---

# Node Basics

Learn about inputs and outputs, how to make connections between nodes, and the common starter nodes.

### **What Are Nodes?**

Nodes are the fundamental building blocks of parametric design in BeeGraphy. Each node performs a specific task such as generating geometry or curve, performing different actions on the curve like rotation, translation, sheer etc.  
A node works like a small processing unit:

-   **Inputs** bring data _into_ the node (numbers, curves, surfaces, lists, etc.)
    
-   **The processing cell** performs the operation (calculation, transformation, generation)
    
-   **Outputs** send the resulting data _out_ to other nodes
    

By connecting these nodes together, you build a visual logic system that defines how your model behaves.

### **How Are Connections Made?**

Connections are made by linking the **output** of one node to the **input** of another.  
This creates a flow of data, where:

1.  One node produces a result
    
2.  That result is passed into the next node
    
3.  The chain of connections drives your entire model
    

You can drag from an output port to an input port to establish a connection. Changing values in any upstream node automatically updates the whole model in real time.

### Data Type Compatibility

Only nodes with matching data types can be connected to each other.  
If the output of one node does **not** match the expected input type of the next node, the connection is considered incompatible.

When this happens, the node highlights in **red**, indicating an error. This helps you quickly identify where the data flow is incorrect so you can adjust your connections or choose the correct node type.

### **Common Starter Nodes in BeeGraphy**

These are the nodes most beginners use first when building a model:

-   **Point Node**: Creates a point using X, Y, Z coordinates.
    
-   **Range Nodes**: Useful for defining intervals or ranges of values.
    
-   **Curve Nodes**: For drawing or importing curves as the base of your geometry.
    
-   **Surface Nodes**: For creating simple plane surfaces or generating surfaces from curves.
    
-   **Transform Nodes**: Move, rotate, scale geometry.
    
-   **List Nodes**: Organize, sort, or filter data flowing through your model.
    
-   **Panel**: Returns the output of node it is connected to,
    

These act as the foundation for building larger, more complex parametric systems.