A Beginner's Guide to Online Image Labeling & Annotation Using PixLab Annotate
Tags: productivity, tutorial, beginners, machinelearning
Published: 2023-11-21 00:31:05

---
title: A Beginner's Guide to Online Image Labeling & Annotation Using PixLab Annotate
published: true
description: Get started using PixLab Annotate, Web based image annotation, labeling, and segmentation tool for your Machine Learning model training tasks and more...
tags: #productivity #tutorial #beginners #machinelearning
cover_image: https://pixlab.io/images/annotate-after.png
# Use a ratio of 100:42 for best results.
# published_at: 2023-11-19 02:32 +0000
---

[Annotate](https://annotate.pixlab.io), created by [PixLab](https://pixlab.io/annotate), is a user-friendly, web-based application tailored for **image annotation and segmentation, essential for training machine learning models**. 
This [online tool](https://annotate.pixlab.io) simplifies the process of labeling and segmenting images, making it accessible even for beginners in the field. Whether you're working on a small project or a large-scale data set, Annotate provides a seamless experience, helping you prepare your images for machine learning tasks efficiently.

![PixLab Annotate Web UI](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/wplwdzj3oeuqmxwpwrrw.png)

This tutorial is designed for beginners and intermediate users who want to effectively use [PixLab Annotate](https://annotate.pixlab.io) for their image labeling and segmentation tasks, especially in the context of machine learning and computer vision.Let's dive in!

## Key Features of PixLab Annotate

- **Enhanced Labeling Tools**: [Annotate](https://pixlab.io/annotate) includes advanced rectangle and polygon zoom drag labeling tools, making the process of annotating images more precise and efficient.
- **Optimized for Instance Segmentation**: [PixLab Annotate](https://annotate.pixlab.io) 1.97 is optimized for instance segmentation tasks, including support for Mask R-CNN, ensuring compatibility with advanced machine learning models.
- **Client-Side Persistent Storage**: With the introduction of client-side persistent storage, your data remains on your device, eliminating the need for data transfer and enhancing security and speed.
- **Full-Screen Display and Snapshot Capture**: The full-screen mode and snapshot capture feature allow for a more immersive and [detailed annotation](https://pixlab.io/annotate) experience.
- **Consistent JSON Output**: The [tool](https://annotate.pixlab.io) generates consistent JSON output, which is readily accepted by most machine learning frameworks, facilitating seamless integration into your workflow.
- **Improved Label Management**: Create, modify, and delete labels with ease, thanks to the improved [label management system](https://pixlab.io/annotate).
- **Annotation Events Tracking**: Keep track of your [annotation history](https://annotate.pixlab.io) with the enhanced tracking feature, which includes undo and redo options for better control over your work.
- **User-Friendly Interface**: The [interface of PixLab Annotate](https://annotate.pixlab.io) 1.97 is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.
## Getting Started with PixLab Annotate

### Step 1: Accessing the Tool
- Open your web browser and go to [PixLab Annotate](https://annotate.pixlab.io).
- No installation is required, as [PixLab Annotate](https://annotate.pixlab.io) is a web-based application.
- The tool documentation is located on [pixlab.io/annotate](https://pixlab.io/annotate).

### Step 2: Loading Images

![Image Loading using annotate](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/2f446fwnl5s0w8ro2awm.png)

- Click on `Load Images` to upload your images.
- You can select multiple images from your computer or use the drag-and-drop feature.
- [PixLab Annotate](https://annotate.pixlab.io) supports a variety of image formats, making it versatile for different projects.

### Step 3: Familiarizing with the Interface

![Annotate UI](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/knrply30uet5qdp77jhr.png)

- **Toolbar**: Located at the top, it contains tools for annotation like rectangles, polygons, and more.
- **Image Area**: The central part where your uploaded image appears.
- **Label List**: A sidebar containing a list of labels you can assign to your annotations.

## Annotating Images

### Step 4: Choosing the Right Tool
- Select an annotation tool based on your project's needs. For instance, use the rectangle tool for bounding boxes or the polygon tool for more complex shapes.

### Step 5: Creating Annotations
![create annotation](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/mwdisd8zsc2slhhmafee.png)
- For the rectangle tool, click and drag on the image to create a box around the object.
- With the polygon tool, click around the object to form a shape that closely follows its contours.

### Step 6: Applying Labels
![label](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/zsu8locjn3tuh8z9bhey.png)
- After [drawing an annotation](https://annotate.pixlab.io), assign a label from the pre-existing list or create a new one by typing in the label box and pressing enter.

### Step 7: Managing Annotations
![new annotation](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/gksp8ke67rhj770vuy94.png)
- You can adjust the size and shape of your annotations by dragging their edges.
- To move an annotation, click and drag it to the desired location.

### Step 8: Saving and Exporting
- Annotations are auto-saved in real-time.
- Export your work in JSON format, which is compatible with most machine learning frameworks.

## Advanced Features

### Full-Screen Mode
- Enhance your [annotation experience](https://annotate.pixlab.io/) by switching to full-screen mode, allowing for better focus and detail.

### Zoom Functionality
- Use the zoom feature for precise annotation, especially useful for detailed or small objects.

### Undo/Redo Buttons
- Mistakes are common in annotation. Use the undo and redo buttons for quick corrections.

### Label Management
- Efficiently manage your labels by adding, editing, or deleting them as per your project requirements.

### Snapshot Feature
- Take snapshots of your work at any stage for record-keeping or to share with team members.

## Best Practices for Efficient Annotation

- **Consistency is Key**: Ensure consistent labeling across all images for accurate machine learning model training.
- **Quality Over Quantity**: Focus on the quality of annotations rather than the quantity. Accurate annotations are more valuable.
- **Regular Breaks**: Annotation can be meticulous. Take regular breaks to maintain a high level of attention to detail.

## Conclusion

[PixLab Annotate](https://annotate.pixlab.io) is a versatile and user-friendly tool that can significantly enhance your image annotation process. By following this guide & the documentation on the [annotate homepage](https://pixlab.io/annotate), you'll be well-equipped to handle various annotation tasks with ease and precision. Remember, the more you practice, the more efficient you become.

Happy annotating!