How can graphics help non-experts understand complex scientific concepts?

1 Why graphics matter

Graphics can help non-experts understand complex scientific concepts by transforming abstract, dense, or technical information into visual forms that are easier to grasp and remember. Graphics can also highlight the main points, relationships, and patterns of the data or the phenomena, and make them more accessible and appealing. Graphics can also stimulate curiosity, interest, and emotions in your audience, and motivate them to learn more about the topic.

2 Types of graphics

When communicating complex scientific concepts to non-experts, there are various types of graphics that you can use depending on your purpose, message, and audience. Diagrams are useful for illustrating structures, components, or processes of a system or concept. Charts can be used to show quantitative or qualitative data related to a topic. Maps are helpful for showing the spatial or geographical aspects of a topic. Icons are a great way to represent a concept, an object, or an action with a simple and recognizable shape or symbol. Images can be used to show the realistic or artistic representation of a topic.

3 Principles of graphics

Creating effective graphics that help non-experts understand complex scientific concepts requires following some basic principles of graphic design and visual communication. These include simplicity, which entails using simple and clear graphics that focus on the essential information without clutter or noise, as well as using consistent and appropriate colors, fonts, and styles. Clarity is another important principle, as graphics should accurately and precisely convey your message and meaning with labels, captions, legends, and keys. Relevance is also key; graphics should relate to your topic and purpose, suit your audience's level of knowledge and interest, and support your main points. Finally, engagement is essential; graphics should attract and retain attention while evoking emotions that connect with your audience's values and experiences.

4 Practices of graphics

Creating effective graphics to help non-experts understand complex scientific concepts requires following some best practices. Researching the topic and audience, and gathering reliable data and information is essential. Planning your graphics, sketching ideas and layouts, and selecting the type, format, and size of your graphics are also important. Designing your graphics with the principles of simplicity, clarity, relevance, and engagement is key. Testing and reviewing your graphics, getting feedback from others to improve them, and presenting them alongside text and speech are also essential. Lastly, using appropriate channels and platforms to share your graphics with your audience will ensure they are seen by the right people.

5 Examples of graphics

If you're looking for examples of graphics that help non-experts understand complex scientific concepts, check out the Visual Communication Lab at IBM. This research group creates interactive and innovative graphics to explore and explain topics like climate change, social media, and health. You can also visit the Scientific American Infographics page to find infographics that illustrate and summarize scientific topics like evolution, neuroscience, and astronomy. And don't forget about the Science Museum Group in the UK – their museums use graphics to display and demonstrate concepts like electricity, genetics, and robotics.

6 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?