A visual text is any piece of content that communicates a message through the use of visuals or images, such as infographics, diagrams, photographs, charts, maps, and videos. Here's an example of an infographic and how to read it:
Example: An infographic that presents the benefits of regular exercise
To read this infographic, follow these steps:
Look at the title: The title of the infographic usually gives you an idea of what the infographic is about. In this case, the title is "The Benefits of Regular Exercise."
Check the source and date: It's important to check the source and date of the infographic to ensure that it's credible and up-to-date.
Look at the main visual: The main visual is usually the largest visual on the infographic and provides a summary of the key message. In this case, the main visual is an image of a person jogging, which communicates the idea of exercise.
Read the headings: The headings provide a structure for the information presented in the infographic. In this case, the headings are "Physical Health Benefits," "Mental Health Benefits," and "How to Get Started."
Read the subheadings: The subheadings provide additional information about each section. In this case, the subheadings under "Physical Health Benefits" are "Reduces the risk of chronic diseases," "Increases strength and endurance," and "Improves sleep quality."
Look at the icons and images: Icons and images help to convey the information in a visual way. In this case, the icons and images under "Physical Health Benefits" show a heart with a checkmark (reduces the risk of chronic diseases), a person lifting weights (increases strength and endurance), and a bed (improves sleep quality).
Read the text: The text provides additional information and details about each section. In this case, the text under "Physical Health Benefits" explains how regular exercise can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, increase strength and endurance, and improve sleep quality.
Look at the data visualizations: Data visualizations, such as charts and graphs, can help to illustrate the information presented in the infographic. In this case, the bar chart under "Mental Health Benefits" shows the percentage of people who reported improvements in mental health after starting an exercise program.
Look for the call to action: The call to action is usually a statement that encourages the reader to take action based on the information presented in the infographic. In this case, the call to action is "Get moving today!" which encourages the reader to start exercising.
Overall, to read a visual text such as an infographic, it's important to pay attention to the main visual, headings, subheadings, icons and images, text, data visualizations, and call to action. By doing so, you can gain a deeper understanding of the information presented and use it to make informed decisions or take action