Writing as a Visual Instrument

The question is whether it is possible to see writing as a visual aid. It is the norm to use visual images to illustrate the written text, but can it be the other way around? Let’s see if we can visualize that here.

Posters

Most posters have text that explains the visuals. It is the opinion here that, that would constitute the art of writing as a visual instrument. It is important to be able to look at the picture, and then read the accompanying text, which will then be the aid in understanding the poster and its content or context. Thus, one could view this as one example where writing is a visual instrument.

Digital White Boards

The White Boards are excellent indications of how the written word can become a visual instrument. As the instructor speaks, the written word creates emphasis on what is being said. This, too, can be an added benefit to the images being used. In such cases, though, it is pointless to talk about an image, or drawing if there is no text to accompany it.

Flip Charts 

These charts should have written text as well as images. In cases such as these, it is important to be creative in presenting the visuals. This is particularly pertinent to the written sections. Cryptic sentences can be extremely helpful.

PowerPoint Slides

A PowerPoint slide presentation is usually a balance between cryptic sentences as well as images, depending on what you are presenting. Each slide will be accompanied by the images, the written word ad the audio, or the voice of the speaker.

Slide Video Presentations

These visuals are often stacked with written text. In most instances, the text can be animated and presents a very attractive visual. Even though it is presented as a visual presentation, it comes across as an animated movie. The text has to be well prepared to make sense so that it could also be used as a standalone presentation.

In all of these instances, it is important to include writing as a means or a part of the communication. Thus, the conclusion is that the written word can be a visual instrument, especially in terms of its role as part of posters, presentations, and other applications.

Reference:
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/healthcarecommunication/chapter/types-of-visual-aids/

Image: https://www.powtoon.com/examples/