Abstract: A method for selectively displaying portions of complex graphics including trees, directed acyclic graphics, and cyclic graphics on a computer display screen while retaining information concerning all nodes interconnections so that graphic information can be correctly recalled as required. Relevant interconnection information concerning a node or nodes to be collapsed or expanded are collected and analyzed. Elements of that interconnect information are displayed while retaining all information needed to display any obscured or hidden portions of the graphic when required. All nodes connected to each selected node are identified and each identified node is assigned to a first set of nodes. A second set of nodes is created that is initially empty. Each node is removed from the first set of nodes and assigned to the second set of nodes. All nodes connected to a remove node are identified and compared to nodes already stored in the first set of nodes.