Simon Pollard (he/him)

Tips for designing figures for your manuscript! #sciart 1) Keep it simple: The figure should clearly and concisely convey the information you are trying to present. Avoid clutter and unnecessary detail that can distract from the main message. 2) Use appropriate software: Choose software that is suitable for your type of figure. For example, use vector graphics software like Adobe Illustrator for creating diagrams and line drawings, and use graphing software like Excel or Origin for creating graphs. 3) Label everything: Ensure that all labels, axes, and other text are clear and easy to read. Use a font size that is appropriate for the size of the figure, and avoid using too many colors or fonts that are difficult to read. 4) Choose appropriate colors: Use colors that are easy on the eyes and that are easily distinguishable from each other. Consider color-blindness and choose colors that are accessible to all readers. 5) Use high-quality images: Use high-quality images with a high resolution. This will ensure that the details of the image are clear and crisp. 6) Get feedback: Share your figures with colleagues and ask for feedback. This can help identify potential issues or areas for improvement that you may have missed. 7) Follow journal guidelines: Follow the guidelines of the journal you are submitting to regarding figure format, size, and resolution. This will ensure that your figures are presented in the best possible way and meet the requirements of the journal. 8) Keep a record of your figures: Keep a record of all the figures you create, including any changes you make during the editing process. This will help you keep track of the different versions of your figures and ensure that you use the correct version when submitting your manuscript. 9) Be consistent: Ensure that all figures are consistent in terms of style, font, and size. This will help to create a cohesive and professional-looking manuscript.