Graphical and Visual Abstracts: Making Research Stand Out
In today's fast-paced information environment, even the most groundbreaking research can be overlooked if it’s not presented in a way that captures attention. Visual abstracts are becoming a standard feature in many journals, offering a concise, engaging summary of a study's key findings. Medical writers are increasingly called on to guide the creation of these visuals, ensuring they are accurate, compliant, and aligned with the manuscript.
What Are Visual Abstracts?
A visual abstract is a single-panel image that summarizes the main message of a scientific paper. Originating in select journals as an optional enhancement, these tools have gained popularity as a way to increase article reach, particularly through social media and conference promotion. The goal is to convey complex results quickly, without sacrificing scientific accuracy or context.
Journals use different terminology. Some say "visual abstract," others "graphical abstract." However, the principle is the same: present the take-home message in a visually compelling way that invites the audience to read the full article.
Why Graphical Presentation Matters
Evidence shows that articles with visual abstracts often generate higher engagement, including more clicks, shares, and downloads. For industry-sponsored research, they can:
Highlight the clinical relevance of findings at a glance.
Make complex study designs or endpoints easier to understand.
Reach audiences beyond the primary readership of the journal, including patients, policymakers, and the media.
They're also increasingly important for multichannel publication planning. The same visual can be adapted for congress presentations, plain language summaries, and social media posts.
Here's How You Can Contribute to Effective Visual Abstracts:
Simplify the message. Identify the core finding of the study and remove unnecessary detail. If the main takeaway isn't instantly clear, the graphic isn't doing its job.
Choose the right format. Flow diagram for study design, schematic for mechanisms of action, infographic for key results, or a hybrid approach for complex datasets.
·Ensure scientific accuracy. Verify that every data point matches the manuscript, captions are precise, and the visual does not misrepresent statistical significance or effect size.
Follow journal and sponsor guidelines. Each journal has its own specifications for size, resolution, and style. If you're creating a sponsor-branded version, check corporate identity rules for fonts, colors, and logo placement.
Prioritize accessibility. Use high-contrast colors, readable fonts, and avoid conveying meaning solely through color (important for color-blind viewers).
Collaborate with designers. Medical writers may draft the initial concept, but a professional designer can refine layout and ensure compliance with technical requirements.
Plan early. Start visual abstract development in parallel with the manuscript so it's ready for submission, avoiding delays if the journal requests it.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Overloading the graphic. Trying to include every figure or table in miniature form makes it unreadable.
Using jargon. While the audience may be clinical, simpler language improves clarity.
Neglecting permissions. Avoid reusing copyrighted images or icons without clearance.
Leaving it too late. Waiting until after acceptance to begin can lead to rushed, suboptimal visuals.
For More Information on Visual Abstracts:
Ibrahim AM, et al. Visual abstracts to disseminate research on social media: a prospective, case-control crossover study. Ann Surg. 2017;266(6):e46-e48.
Elsevier's graphical abstract guidelines: https://www.elsevier.com/authors/tools-and-resources/visual-abstract
Well-designed visual abstracts can significantly increase engagement with a publication. Medical writers, working closely with authors, sponsors, and designers, are ideally positioned to ensure these graphics communicate the science accurately and effectively. By integrating visual abstract planning into the manuscript development process, you not only enhance the reach of the research but also support consistent messaging across channels.
Want to make your publications more visible? Our team creates compelling visual abstracts that meet journal standards, align with your scientific messaging, and attract attention across channels from peer-reviewed journals to social media.
Pamela Harvey, PhD
Director of Publications and Medical Affairs