Perhaps at the university or at work you have been asked to make an infographic but you don't know exactly what it is or how you have to do it so that it turns out well and above all to that all the content you want to transmit is understood.
If you don't know what an infographic is, keep reading because we are going to explain it to you what is it and how to do it so that you can have a clearer idea of how to use this information transmission resource.
What is an infographic
When we talk about an infographic we are referring to a visual and graphic representation in which information on a specific topic is presented. through images, graphics or visual elements (accompanied by text). Several elements can be combined that make sense in an image, giving meaning to the information that we want to transmit to the receiver (readers, clients, public...).
In short, an infographic serves to visually summarize the contents of a topic to be discussed, but it must always be aesthetic and attractive. In this way the receiver will not get bored and will pay attention to what is being explained. He will be more motivated to read it and will understand and it will retain all the information you are presenting to it.
Sometimes, people remember images more than written or spoken words, that is why infographics take on importance in this regard. It allows the receiver to more easily remember all the information he has received at a given time. In this way it is necessary that the infographic is well taken care of and well presented. At the same time, it should be simple, with an attractive design and also easy to understand.
Benefits of infographics
Infographics have great benefits for the reader, such as:
- Visual support so as not to get lost in the explanation of the content
- better understand the concepts
- With a simple and clear structure it is better remembered
- If the reader is on a website, he spends more time on it
- Increase the visibility and engagement of the website or social network by sharing information with other users
- They add value to the content that you want to transmit
Types of infographics
It is important to know, quickly, what types of infographics you can do and that you choose the one that best suits your current needs, that is, according to how you want to transmit the information. Some infographics are:
- Statistical infographics. They are those that contain tables, graphs or visual elements that allow ordering the information. It is usually quite intuitive for the reader.
- Chronological infographics. They are made with a time line to mark events.
- Versus infographics. It is a visual way of making comparisons, showing characteristics, advantages or disadvantages.
- Numerical or process infographics. They follow a numerical order or lines to display data or show steps.
- Geographic infographics. They are used to give information about locations on a map (historical facts, health data, etc.).
How to make an infographic correctly
Before knowing how, you must take into account what are the fundamental elements or parts that must appear. Let's see:
- Title. The title should be brief and clearly describe the information to be presented. Ideally, it should be eye-catching so that the reader feels motivated to know more.
- Subtitle. It is appropriate that a subtitle is added below the title to complement the information in the title if necessary. It can be a little less brief than the previous one.
- The Body. In the body is where we will find the texts and images to display. Texts should be simple, easy to read and understand. You have to get to the point. The images can be photographs, icons, visual vectors... what matters is to capture the attention and that they are easily recorded in the memory.
- Sources and author. When an infographic is made, it is important that if you extract the information from other sources and not only from your own inventiveness, you put that information (it can be web pages, magazines, books...). Always cite the author.
- Put your name. If you have done it yourself, you cannot forget to also add your name, logo, website or any other information that seems relevant to you.
Once we know all this, do not miss the step by step that you must follow so that you have a sublime infographic:
- Select a theme and an idea. Choose the topic you want to talk about, do not make it too general so that it looks good, it must be specific and generate an impact on the public. Look for a topic that can be made visual and viral. The content must be of quality.
- Research the topic. Collect all the information you can, have all the necessary data from the sector at hand and thus you will be able to make a good analysis of everything obtained. Investigate and corroborate the information, which is truthful.
- Find your style. When you are going to make an infographic, it is important that you choose a style that goes with you and also with the information you want to convey. Create your own designs, let all your creativity come out. You must feel comfortable with the creations you are making.
- Choose format, colors and fonts. Although it seems easy, it is not. You have to know how to choose the format, colors and fonts well so that everything fits well visually. Choose colors and fonts that make it easy to read but at the same time make an impact.
- Texts and images. Once you have all of the above clear, you must determine the texts and images, it is essential for the reader to continue with sufficient motivation to read what is in front of him. Choose images and texts that impact and that allow you to order all the information well.
- Organize the information. It is important that you organize all the content and that it has a good structure. Ideally, you should first make a draft on a sheet of paper by hand and then give it shape in digital format.
- Pick a good program. Once you have everything you want to assemble in your head, you will have to look for a good program or tool to make it easier for you to shape everything you have in mind. You can choose paid or free programs, this depends on you.
Once you've gotten this far, now comes the most exciting part... designing your own infographic!