What Is an Infographic?

An infographic is a presentation ofinformation in a visually appealing way using graphs, charts, or diagrams. The word infographic is an amalgamation of the words “information” and “graphic,” which accurately describe its nature. An infographic is a clever way to share complex information visually, making it easier to digest and understand data. 

While infographics used to be something primarily developed by graphic designers, recent advances in AI have made them more accessible to anyone with a computer or device. Many available programs make inputting data and producing an AI-generated infographic easy and cost-effective, even if you have no design expertise. 

In this article, you’ll learn more about infographics, including different types and uses. You’ll also learn what makes an infographic effective and how to create your own. 

Types of infographics

Infographics vary in style, depending on the information you want to display and how you portray it. With AI, it’s possible to make various infographics using programs that require only a series of prompts. Below are some types of infographics.

1. Step-by-step infographic

Step-by-step infographics, or process infographics, show steps, processes, or flows that guide users. This type can outline a sequence to show what happens at each step in the process. You might use numbered steps or a visual flowchart. Examples include an infographic showing steps to get your book published or guiding you through setting up your new smartphone.

2. Timeline infographic

Similar to a step-by-step infographic, a timeline infographic includes steps with specific dates or times, typically arranged in chronological order. You might do this with photos, visual dates, or diagrams to indicate the time of the day. An example might be a display of historical events to celebrate a special occasion or teach readers about a significant moment in time. 

3. Hierarchical infographic

A hierarchical infographic displays information from top to bottom or bottom to top. One example would be a pyramid chart infographic outlining the management structure within an organization. Similarly, you can use this infographic to show the importance of different skills needed for a job.

4. Statistical infographic 

Statistical infographics visually display data using charts and graphs. An example is using an infographic to display the results of a survey or poll. You also see statistical infographics used in public health to increase knowledge about a disease or treatment program within a community. 

5. Comparison infographic

A comparison infographic is an effective way to display and analyze data side by side. You might use it to compare products or services, look at pros and cons, or as a price comparison. This type of infographic typically displays information in a two-column format that lets you line up the details so they are easy to read.

6. Map infographic 

A map or geographical infographic displays geographical data and trends, such as demographics, location data, or population density. You might use it to display data on unemployment and salary across US regions by highlighting areas on a map with associated statistics. It's also a useful infographic for showing where certain products are popular.

What is an infographic used for?

Different companies and organizations use infographics to display complex information in an easy-to-understand way. Depending on the information, audience, and message, they may have multiple reasons for using infographics. 

Infographics have a few main functions, including displaying data, disseminating information, and creating awareness. 

Visual infographics

Visual infographics represent data in diagram form, so it’s easy to understand. Data can appear complex, and presenting it in a visual format simplifies it, allowing people to understand it quickly and aiding recall. Visually displaying data cleverly demonstrates patterns and percentages. For example, a pie chart allows you to quickly see which areas are more represented than others. 

Informative infographics

Sometimes, you would rather inform viewers of specific context, information, or concepts versus data. For example, you may want to share with your customers a new release, your organization’s privacy policynt, or company news. With informative infographics, you can display any information in a visually pleasing way, giving people a chance to learn something without reading reams of text. 

Editorial infographics 

Editorial infographics focus on creating awareness of different topics. You might use an editorial infographic to provide information about an event, opinion, or news topic. These help create brand awareness or share a story. This type also is highly shareable on social media. 

What makes an infographic effective?

An effective infographic quickly communicates information in a visually appealing way. Achieving this generally requires excellent design skills or the ability to use AI programs effectively. You want a design that's streamlined, makes sense, and is easy to follow so the reader understands all the information you're sharing—and doesn't overload them.

Here are some infographic tips to consider when designing your project.

Consider your audience.

You want your infographic to be useful to your audience, so ensure it’s relevant to them. Consider what your target audience wants, what they are likely to share, and how they would like the information presented. 

Keep it on target.

Niche infographics that focus on a narrow topic and display a body of data tend to do well compared to more general ones. Stay on track with what you have decided to focus on, and make sure all the information you include is relevant to the topic. 

Keep it simple.

Your infographic should have a clear font and a simple design that's easy to read. When choosing colors, use options that match your audience and learn how to use white space. Sections free of text and images create space between ideas so the reader can absorb information more quickly. 

Give it a clear title.

Like a story or blog article, your infographic needs a clear, catchy title that makes the topic obvious to the reader. This will grab attention and indirectly invite people to view the information you're sharing. 

Use your branding. 

If you create an infographic for a company or organization, include your logo and ensure the design is consistent with branding. This will help create brand recognition when your audiences share the infographic. 

Promote and share.

If you spend time creating an infographic for a purpose, you want your audience to see it. Infographics are highly shareable ways to display content, and you can add them to social media, newsletters, and blogs—and even make them into posters and displays. 

How to make an infographic 

There are online resources to create infographics, even if you're not a graphic designer. Experiment with several tools and platforms available to find the one you're most comfortable using. The following websites can be a good starting point:

• HubSpot

• PowerPoint

• Canva

• Visme

When you're ready to create, start with an outline to determine what information you want to include. From there, search for a template that matches the content and audience and start designing your infographic.

AI-generated infographics

You can also use AI prompts to design and populate your infographic. Simply enter a topic, data, and any other requirements into an AI infographic maker. AI tools can even help you collect the data you’ll use for your infographic. You can change colors and fonts and add your branding to customize your infographic. 

You may consider the following AI tools:

• Piktochart

• ChatGPT

• Appy Pie Design

Get started with Coursera

Whether you're ready to create your first infographic or want to hone your skills, consider taking a course to learn more about effective design and creating an effective infographic. The guided project, Create an Infographic with Infogram, is available on Coursera. It takes you step-by-step through the process of creating an infographic, from planning to publication.