A graphical abstract serves as a visual summary of an article’s main findings. It can be helpful for readers trying to get a sense of an article's findings or readers searching through databases looking for particular findings. Graphical abstracts have been widely accepted by scientific publishers like Nature, ACS, Springer, Wiley, RSC, IEEE, etc.<br />1. Define the Type of Graphical Abstract<br />A graphical abstract can be designed in many ways. Based on your approach, your final graphical abstract will embody the style and aesthetic that you define for it.<br />When you start designing your abstract, define the type at the very beginning. This will help you come up with an authentic design that will work best for your purpose. <br />What are the different types of graphical abstract, you ask? We have a handy list to answer that very question:<br />1. Diagram: This type of abstract comprises diagrams and technical language and is often used in journals dedicated to chemistry. <br />2. Visual Abstract: This type of abstract comprises a title, some visuals, key data, and a visual icon. <br />3. Infographic: This type of abstract highlights visuals and tends to use less text. <br />4. Comic: This type of abstract mixes attractive visuals with humor and supporting text to convey key ideas. <br />When choosing the best type of graphical abstract for your paper, keep your audience in mind. Are they experts? Laypeople? Somewhere in between? Knowing your audience can help you choose the best type of graphical abstract design to clearly and concisely convey information. <br />2. Use the Right Tools to Create Your Graphical Abstract<br />Once you have chosen a type of graphical abstract, the next step is to find the right tool to design it. You will need a tool that allows you to intuitively seek shapes and graphics that are appropriate to your subject matter. Since it is not possible for every researcher or student to access professional software such as CorelDraw and Photoshop, finding a worthy alternative is imperative.<br />Mind the Graph offers a user-friendly graphical abstract maker that can help you create aesthetically pleasing and scientifically accurate graphical abstracts in just a few clicks. This online tool's interface combines the prowess of professional graphic design software with the ease of use to give students and researchers creative freedom.<br />NOTE: All graphical abstracts in this article were created using Mind The Graph.<br />3. Focus on the Objective of Your Graphical Abstract<br />While a graphical abstract is an element that you add to your completed research paper, it is not separate from it. When you are designing your graphical abstract, remember to highlight the objectives that you set out to achieve in your paper.<br />The objectives of your paper should be the driving force behind your graphical abstract. Focusing on your paper's objectives will help to ensure that your graphical abstract works and aligns with the content of your research paper. That means ensuring that the core message, important points, and results are present and easily visible in your graphical abstract. <br /><br />