- Rebecca Tomasis
- May 7
- 6 min read
Updated: May 13
How do you turn dry information into something engaging and memorable? Infographics, a key element of graphic design, effortlessly bridge the gap between data and storytelling. They condense complex ideas into visually captivating designs that people can quickly understand and appreciate. Infographics have become a favored marketing tactic for educators, marketers, and content creators seeking to engage audiences while conveying important information.
You may be wondering, what exactly is an infographic and how can you create one that stands out? This article will walk you through everything you need to know—by the end, you’ll be ready to create effective visuals that not only impress but communicate your ideas clearly.
Ready to learn how to make an infographic? Start by exploring different types of infographics and discover infographic ideas to inspire your creativity.
What is an infographic?
An infographic is a visual representation of information, data or knowledge. Think of it as a hybrid of storytelling and data. By combining text, images and design, infographics simplify complex concepts, making them easier to understand and retain. Whether it’s telling the story of renewable energy adoption or breaking down a recipe, infographics serve as a versatile tool across industries and purposes.
Why use infographics?
Infographics are more than just appealing visuals; they’re also practical tools that amplify communication and learning. When used effectively, infographics not only inform but also persuade, creating memorable content that’s shareable and impactful across platforms.
Improved comprehension
Visual tools like charts and diagrams break down intricate data into easy-to-follow formats. Infographics can make data-heavy topics less intimidating, particularly for non-expert audiences.
Better engagement
Visuals are processed 60,000 times faster than text by the human brain, Infographics can capture attention instantly and deliver information efficiently, especially when used on social media or in presentations.
Boost retention
When used effectively, infographics help users retain 65% of information after three days, compared to only 10–20% from text alone.
8 types of infographics
There are several types of infographics, each serving a specific purpose. Choosing the right type depends on your message and audience.
01. Statistical infographics
Statistical infographics focus heavily on presenting numerical data in visual formats such as bar charts, pie charts or graphs. These are perfect for reports, surveys or studies, offering a visual representation of key statistics.
02. Process infographics
Process infographics convey workflows or step-by-step guides using flowcharts and numbered lists. They help readers follow a sequence of instructions easily while keeping their focus with simple visuals.
03. Timeline infographics
Timelines visually lay out historical events, project milestones or progressions. By combining visuals and chronological order, they help readers grasp timelines at a glance. They are frequently used to showcase the evolution of an idea, project milestones or chronological history, helping viewers gain context at a glance.
04. Comparison infographics
Used to visualize differences or similarities between two or more items, comparison infographics often pair lists, icons, charts or products side by side, often helping audiences make clearer decisions.
05. Informational infographics
This type provides a breakdown of a specific topic or concept. By combining visuals with short, digestible text blocks, informational infographics are designed entirely for audience clarity.
06. Geographic infographics
Visualizing geographical patterns or trends becomes easier with geographic infographics, which utilize maps to convey location-specific data or analytics.
07. List infographics
This type of infographic uses bullet points or numbered lists to organize information in a concise, easy-to-follow format. They are great for breaking down complex topics or summarizing key takeaways.
08. Hierarchical infographics
Hierarchical infographics use visual design elements like arrows or diagrams to illustrate relationships between different components of a topic. They are useful for showcasing how ideas, systems or processes work together.
Elements of an infographic
When creating an infographic, there are essential elements to keep in mind that contribute to its effectiveness and design. These elements include:
Headline
Start with a headline that grabs attention and clearly states the infographic’s purpose. It's the first thing viewers see, so make sure it entices them to read on. For example, “The Step-by-Step Guide to Mindful Morning Routines” is clear and intriguing.
Color
Color is a powerful visual tool that can evoke emotion, highlight important information, and create contrast. When applying color theory to your infographic, consider the tone of your message and ensure accessibility for all audiences.
Typography
Choosing the right fonts is critical for readability and consistency in your infographic. Use font styles that complement each other and align with the overall design aesthetic.
Learn more: What is typography.
Layout
An effective layout guides viewers through the information in a logical, easy-to-follow way. It helps organize content and balance visuals while drawing attention to key points.
Charts and graphs
Charts and graphs are ideal for showcasing data in a graphical format. They help viewers understand complex statistics quickly, making them an essential element in many infographics.
How to create an infographic in 6 steps
Creating an effective infographic requires a mix of careful planning, clear communication and appealing design. Follow these steps to make your project successful:
01. Research and gather data
Start by identifying your topic and researching credible, up-to-date sources. Whether you’re working on market trends or health stats, prioritize accuracy and relevance in your data.
02. Outline your narrative
Determine the purpose of your infographic and how you’ll present the information. Think about the flow—are you explaining steps, describing differences or presenting statistics? Creating a clear outline will ensure your message is structured and impactful.
03. Choose your design tool
Select a design tool that fits your needs and skill level. Tools like Wixel offer versatile options for creating visually appealing infographics, even for beginners. Focus on user-friendly platforms and features like templates, drag-and-drop elements, and customizable designs to streamline the creation process.
04. Focus on visual hierarchy
Arrange your content in a way that highlights the most essential details first. Use headings, colors and icons to guide the reader’s focus through your infographic naturally.
05. Select an appealing color palette and fonts
Choose infographic colors and typography that complement the subject and maintain readability. A consistent style not only enhances design but also ensures professionalism.
Try the Wixel color palette generator to create cohesive designs.
06. Test and review
Before finalizing your infographic, share it with a few colleagues or team members for feedback. Ensure that it communicates its intended message clearly and effectively.
Tips to make an infographic
Now that you know the basics of what makes an infographic successful, here are some tips to help you create one that stands out:
Know your audience: Understand who will be viewing your infographic and tailor it to their interests and needs.
Keep it simple: Avoid clutter or overwhelming amounts of information. Stick to a few key points and use visuals to support them.
Use high-quality graphics: High-resolution images and icons can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your infographic.
Keep it visually appealing: Use a consistent color scheme and typography and leave enough white space to create a clean and professional design.
Include an appropriate call-to-action: Whether it’s sharing on social media or visiting a website, make sure your audience knows what action to take after viewing your infographic.
Optimize for sharing: Create versions suited for different platforms, such as mobile viewing or print.
What is an infographic FAQ
Are infographics limited to one page?
No, infographics can be single-page or multi-page depending on the amount of information being conveyed. The goal is to present information in a visually compelling and easily digestible manner.
