Three methods for converting sketch shapes into semantic elements by way of a semantic editor are disclosed. First, a method for conversion of a sketch shape that is part of a nested shape combination, which includes a sketch shape either hosting or nested within a semantic element. Second, a method for conversion of sketch shapes to semantic elements by storing sketch shape names and sketch shape descriptions in correlation with specific semantic elements and properties. The stored correlation is referenced for subsequent sketch shapes names or descriptions that are the same or a subset of the stored sketch shape name or description. Third, a method of conversion of one or more sketch shapes into a semantic template containing a plurality of semantic elements. Each of the one or more sketch shapes is mapped to a specific semantic element within the semantic template.