Studio Tip

February 2009

Get to the Point: Concise and Correct Figure Descriptions

One of the hardest tasks to learn in the RFB&D studio is how to describe visual elements in a textbook. Based on RFB&D reading conventions, there are ways to provide better figure descriptions. In general textbooks follow the bookmarker’s guidelines, which usually will direct you to describe the figure at the bottom of the page. Before beginning, remember it is OK to stop the recording and plan out a description to avoid too many “uhs…and uhms.” Also remember that the descriptions are there to augment the text and should be concise—not longer than one-two minutes at the most. Follow this process for figure descriptions:

· Read Caption and title of figure first.

· Make an introductory statement, Ex: “This is a diagram showing the supply chain network.”

· Outline any symbols that are necessary for understanding the figure. Ex: “Double-headed arrows indicate ‘Information flow’ “

· Describe any inset figure information if there is one.

· Describe any structure details of the figure. Ex: “There are three central parts to the network chain and several outer stages.”

· Highlight any areas and trends in the figure: Using a flow or clock movement can sometimes be helpful here. Ex: “Starting at the top left of the outer network chain and moving to the right…”

· Finish description with a “Return to Text”

More information on figures and other visual elements in the texts can be found in the Reading Conventions and Guidelines document. Ask a studio staff member to read it if you would like more info.