Words are not the only parts of your content – complex information often also needs to be shown in tables, graphs and other visual elements. A simple table can often convey information at a glance that would otherwise require several text paragraphs to explain. A well-designed graph can demonstrate relationships far more effectively than a text description alone.

This section discusses the types of displays and the conventions used in visual communication.

  • Planning visual displays

    Learn the 3 steps for effectively showing complex information.

  • Conventions for visual displays

    Use visual displays to directly support the text and provide a visual representation of what is being discussed.

  • Tables

    Use tables to organise and display information in columns and rows to condense a lot of information in a meaningful way.

  • Graphs

    Use graphs to present numerical data and convey overall patterns in the data.

  • Maps

    Use maps to illustrate location-specific or spatial data.

  • Diagrams

    Use diagrams to show concepts or processes such as scale, cross-sections, relationships, simplified maps, or hierarchies of information.

  • Infographics

    Use infographics for graphical representations of information that engage the audience and help them to understand complex concepts.

  • Illustrations

    Use digital or hand-drawn illustrations to visualise texts, concepts, processes, stories or our physical world.

  • Photographs

    Use photographs for analysis, measurement, reporting, research and recording information.

  • Audiovisual

    Use audio and video to help users access and understand complex information in different ways.