233 TIPS ON GRAPHICS AND VISUAL DESIGN We know a picture says a thousand words, and we should strive to eliminate 20 percent of text and replace it with pictures to convey the messages and feelings. An easy way to achieve this for non-artists is to repurpose online animated video platform tools. Simply use the built-in backgrounds and characters to easily create an entire scene. Then use a screen capture to save your image as a JPG. This allows you to “draw” and customize characters and their expressions—without any drawing ability! Danielle Wallace, Beyond the Sky It is important to choose an image or graphic that is relevant to the topic discussed. Chantal Rioux, Manulife Ideally, graphics and text work together to tell a story. If the text is about an anchor, show an image of how it is used as opposed to a simple image of an anchor. Doug Belding, SweetRush Be mindful in choosing types of graphics. Avoid clip art entirely. If your project still looks “off,” analyze the types of graphics you’re using. Are you mixing illustrations and photographs? Pick one! This simple choice will instantly make your design look more cohesive. Breana Hidalgo, Pasco-Hernando State College 41 www.eLearningGuild.com