Visuals help us think.
Visualization of abstract concepts helps us understand the world. Graphical depictions create a new way of seeing things and solving problems. The purpose of diagrams, charts, graphs, visualizations, maps, and timelines is to concretize abstract ideas and concepts.
Visualization of abstract concepts helps us understand the world. Graphical depictions create a new way of seeing things and solving problems. The purpose of diagrams, charts, graphs, visualizations, maps, and timelines is to concretize abstract ideas and concepts.
How abstract graphics work
They enhance communication and credibility of a message. Abstract graphics are prevalent in technical, scientific,and business publication.
They provide a concrete reference for understanding difficult content and facilitate analysis and problem solving.
Abstract graphics succeed at depicting intangible concepts that are difficult to express in words.
They provide a concrete reference for understanding difficult content and facilitate analysis and problem solving.
Abstract graphics succeed at depicting intangible concepts that are difficult to express in words.
The Cognitive Aspect
Space conveys meaning: Abstract graphics are often superior to verbal descriptions. We process them more quickly andeasily.
In diagrams, charts, and graphics the spatial relationships are metaphorical.
Reducing cognitive load: Abstract graphics alleviate cognitive load because relationships are explicitly illustrated.
Explicit depiction of relationships helps viewers process information simultaneously rather than sequentially.
Improving search efficiency: When a person find relevent information in a graphic other important information is usually next to it.
In diagrams, charts, and graphics the spatial relationships are metaphorical.
Reducing cognitive load: Abstract graphics alleviate cognitive load because relationships are explicitly illustrated.
Explicit depiction of relationships helps viewers process information simultaneously rather than sequentially.
Improving search efficiency: When a person find relevent information in a graphic other important information is usually next to it.
Applying the Principle
Big-Picture Views
Data Displays
Visualization of information
More than Geography
Snapshots of time
