Illustrations
Illustrations can be quite useful in getting your point across to readers. However, caution must be taken not to confuse the reader with the illustrations used. Here are some points to remember about illustrations for a document: - Use illustrations to break up the page and add white space. The illustrations should have minimal text both within and immediately surrounding them.
- Keep the number of illustrations in your text to a minimum. Too many graphic devices can be overwhelming for readers.
- Simplify illustrations by omitting unnecessary elements that are purely decorative or distracting.
- Illustrations must be close to the text which they accompany. The purpose of illustrations is to clarify the text. Misplaced illustrations may confuse the reader.
- Use pictures or simple diagrams for illustration. Flowcharts, algorithms, or other more sophisticated illustrations may confuse people who are not familiar with the subject of the document.
- Make illustrations 2-dimensional. Attempts to make them appear 3-dimensional may confuse the reader.
- Use universal pictures such as arrows or stop signs whenever possible to make illustrations familiar to the reader.
- Use minimal detail in illustrations to enhance both comprehension and the reproducibility of the document. Line drawings are easy to follow and reproduce; graphs, charts, and pictures can be difficult to reproduce clearly.
- All illustrations should have clear labels to increase understanding for the reader.
- Cartoons often increase a reader's satisfaction and compliance with directions.
- Cartooning body parts should be avoided. Internal organs should be presented in the context of other, recognizable body parts. A realistic presentation may avoid further confusion for the reader.
- People in illustrations should resemble the audience. They are more likely to recognize that the message is directed toward them.
For more information related to illustrations, see the sections on contrast, format, spacing, and highlighting information.
Further reading on illustrations can be found in: Strategies for Effective Patient Education Material Design. Author: Leslie C. Hussey. Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, 1997. 11(2): 37-46. Evaluating Print Health Education Materials. Authors: Janine Cory, Carolyn Bottum, & Caryl Haddock. Cancer Practice, 1995. 3(1): 54-56. Return to Resources
|
