Chapter 13:  Creating-Reader Centered Graphics

Guideline 2: Select the Type of Graphic That will Be Most Effective At Achieving Your Objectives

Consider your readers' tasks

•  Numerical data is best presented in a table, bar graph, line graph, or pie chart

• The components of an electronic instrument can be best represented in a photograph, drawing, block diagram, or schematic

Consider your readers' attitudes

• Choose a type of graphic that most quickly and dramatically communicates the evidence that supports your persuasive point (see examples: fig. 13.3-pg. 338)

Guideline 3: Make Each Graphic Easy to Understand and Use.

• Graphics should support reader's tasks

• Consider your readers' knowledge and expectations

• simplify graphics:  (1)include only an imaginable amount of material and (2)eliminate unnecessary details (see fig. 13.5 and 13.6)

• Label the important content clearly (fig. 13.8)

• Provide informative titles (fig. 13.7)

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