Proving the value of visual design in scientific communication

What is it about?

This study examines how scientists respond to visual design in scientific communications. Specifically, we determine the impact of visual design on the Graphical Abstract (GA), an overview figure that attracts potential readers and visually summarizes what a paper is about. We show that GAs designed in accordance with classic visual design principles significantly enhance readers’ first impressions of a paper. Well-designed GAs make papers seem more interesting, more clearly written and more scientifically rigorous. These results confirm that visual design enhances rather than detracts from the perception of intellectual and scientific competence.

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Why is it important?

Our results point to the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration between scientists and visual design experts. A renewed focus on visual scientific communication, especially within graduate education, would enable future generations of scientists and engineers to communicate their research findings more effectively. Scientists that create accessible, informative and engaging images will reach larger audiences, and therefore catalyze new explorations and discoveries.