Overview

Want to master C4 Model architecture diagrams through practical examples? This by-example guide teaches C4 Model through annotated diagram examples organized by complexity level.

What Is C4 Model By-Example Learning?

C4 Model by-example learning is a diagram-first approach where you learn through annotated, practical architecture diagrams rather than narrative explanations. Each example shows:

• What the diagram represents - Clear explanation of the architectural view
• Key elements - Identification of systems, containers, components, and relationships
• Design decisions - Rationale behind structural choices
• Mermaid diagrams - Working C4 diagrams you can modify and use

This approach is ideal for software architects and developers who need to document and communicate system architecture using the C4 Model framework.

Learning Path

The C4 Model by-example tutorial guides you through examples organized into three progressive levels, from basic system context to detailed code-level architecture.

Coverage Philosophy

This by-example guide provides practical coverage of C4 Model through annotated diagram examples. The focus is on real-world architecture visualization, not theoretical concepts.

What’s Covered

• System Context diagrams - High-level system relationships and external dependencies
• Container diagrams - Major technical building blocks and their interactions
• Component diagrams - Internal structure of containers
• Code diagrams - Class-level details when needed
• Supplementary diagrams - Dynamic views, deployment views

What’s NOT Covered

• Deep architectural theory (see by-concept tutorials for conceptual understanding)
• Tool-specific implementations beyond Mermaid
• Organization-specific notation conventions

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of software architecture concepts
• Familiarity with system design principles
• Experience reading technical diagrams

Structure of Each Example

Every example follows a consistent format:

1. Brief Explanation: What the example demonstrates and why it matters
2. C4 Diagram: Mermaid diagram showing the architecture
3. Key Elements: Explanation of major components and relationships
4. Design Rationale: Why this structure was chosen
5. Key Takeaway: The core insight to retain

This structure provides context, visualization, and understanding all in one place.