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Editor Layout Update: Content Bar

Learn how the updated editor layout improves content discovery and reduces switching between panels while building emails.

Updated this week

Overview

The editor layout has been updated to make building emails faster and easier. The main change moves the Content panel from the right side of the editor to the left side.

This update reduces the need to switch between panels when editing attributes or adding new elements. You can now browse modules while continuing to edit content.

The update also introduces a resizable sidebar, improved module search, and persistent panel settings.

Note: This feature is currently in Alpha testing. Please reach out to tiffany@knak.com if you would like to participate.


Demo Video


What Changed in the Editor Layout

Content Panel Moved to the Left

Previously, the Content panel appeared on the right side of the editor. If you were editing attributes and wanted to add new content, you needed to navigate back to the content library.

The Content panel now appears on the left side of the editor. This keeps modules accessible while editing attributes.

Benefits:

  • Browse modules while editing content

  • Reduce panel switching

  • Insert elements faster

Content Bar panel located on the left side of the Knak builder.

Faster Module Browsing

The Modules search now lives in the left sidebar with the Content panel.

You can quickly search for modules and drag them directly into your email.

You can also resize the sidebar to make browsing easier.

To resize the sidebar:

  1. Hover over the edge of the left sidebar.

  2. Click and drag the divider.

  3. Adjust the width of the panel.

Module icon highlighted in the content bar panel.

Using the Layers Panel

The Layers panel is still available in the editor. It has moved into the new left sidebar layout. You can switch between Content and Layers within the sidebar.

View Layers

Use the Layers view to select sections, columns, and modules in your email.

To open the Layers panel:

  1. Open the left sidebar.

  2. Select Layers at the bottom of the panel.

  3. Click any layer to select it in the canvas.

Layer browser in the content bar panel.

Minimize the Layers Panel

You can collapse the Layers section to create more space for content browsing.

To minimize the Layers panel:

  1. Locate the Layers section at the bottom of the sidebar.

  2. Click the collapse icon.

This displays only the Content panel.

Collapse the Entire Sidebar

You can collapse the entire left sidebar to maximize the email preview.

To collapse the sidebar:

  1. Click the collapse icon at the top of the sidebar.

  2. The editor expands to show a larger email canvas.

Gif displaying the minimizing and collapsing of the content bar view.

Persistent Sidebar Settings

The editor now remembers your sidebar preferences.

If you collapse the sidebar or resize it, the editor saves that setting.

When you return to the editor later, your layout will remain the same.

Example:

  • Collapse the sidebar.

  • Leave the editor.

  • Return later.

The sidebar will remain collapsed. This feature helps maintain a consistent workspace.


Why This Change Was Made

The new layout improves the editing experience and prepares the editor for future features.

Benefits include:

  • Faster module discovery

  • Less panel switching

  • More flexible workspace

  • Support for future editor capabilities


Need more help? Contact support via live chat using the chat bubble in the bottom right corner or email support@knak.com.

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