How can you use visuals in academic writing?

1 Types of visuals

In academic writing, there are various visuals that can be used depending on the purpose, audience, and discipline. Tables can display numerical or textual data in rows and columns, while charts can show patterns, trends, or relationships among data with bars, lines, pies, or other shapes. Graphs plot data points on a coordinate system to demonstrate how one variable changes in relation to another. Diagrams illustrate the structure, function, or process of something using symbols, labels, and arrows. Maps show the location, distribution, or movement of something on a geographical area. Images convey a realistic or artistic representation of something through photographs, drawings, paintings, or icons. Lastly, infographics combine text and visuals to present information in a succinct and attractive way.

2 Functions of visuals

Visuals can serve various functions in academic writing, each one helping to support your main point. For instance, visuals can be used to summarize a large amount of information in a concise way, compare and contrast items or groups, illustrate examples or evidence, explain complex concepts or processes, and persuade readers of your position or recommendation. They are an effective tool for communicating information and making it more accessible to readers.

3 Principles of design

Visuals can significantly improve your academic writing if they are designed well. To ensure this, visuals should be clear and easy to understand, without any unnecessary details or distractions. Additionally, they should be accurate and reliable, based on credible sources and data. Furthermore, visuals should be relevant and appropriate to your topic, purpose, and audience. To maintain consistency, visuals should use the same style, format, and terminology. Lastly, visuals should be balanced and proportionate to your text; neither too few nor too many nor too small nor too large.

4 Integration of visuals

Visuals can be a powerful addition to your academic writing if they are integrated effectively. This means introducing your visual in your text, with a signal phrase that indicates its type, function, and source. Additionally, label it with a descriptive title and a number that corresponds to the order of appearance in your text. Cite your visual according to the citation style of your discipline, either in the text, in the caption, or in the reference list. Explain it in your text, using a commentary that summarizes its main point, highlights its key features, and relates it to your argument. Finally, format your visual according to the guidelines of your discipline, either in the text, in an appendix, or in a separate file.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?