In various embodiments, methods and systems, for automatically generating guides, are provided. A user can generate guides based on content zones of a wireframe layout or visual element layout. A selection of a content zone having a shape is received. A selection of a guide creation action to generate a grid structure encompassing the shape of the content zone is received. A determination of a boundary set for the shape is made. The boundary set includes a top boundary, a bottom boundary, a left boundary, and a right boundary. The boundary set is based on a data (e.g., vector, pixel, text) perimeter of the shape. The grid structure is automatically generated based on the shape. The grid structure comprises a top horizontal guide, a bottom horizontal guide, a left vertical guide, and right vertical guide. The grid structure is located adjacent to portions of the boundary set of the shape.