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Infographic: How Authors can use Infographics to Connect with Readers

Infographics are a popular marketing tool in the business world because they are a great way to get a company’s name out in front of potential customers. A popular infographic could be shared widely, giving a company both an SEO boost and adding to its brand recognition.

We don’t see infographics used much in the book world, but they could be a boon for authors who are willing to invest the time and energy. They’re really not that hard to make once you get over the first hurdle.

Here are five ways authors could use infographics. If you have another use for them, we’d love to hear about it in the comments.

1. Reveal background details for setting, characters, or events

There’s no better way to keep fans coming back for more than to reveal how a character got their scar, or explain the history of a royal guard, a gang of cutthroats, or a secret society.

JK Rowling, for example, even has a whole site built on background details for the Harry Potter books, and has published several spin off books.

2. Show how your book is similar to popular books

Readers are always looking for books similar to their favorites, If your book shares themes and tropes with popular series like the Foundation, Narnia, or with a famous author’s books, you should point that out.

The more connections the better.

3.  Share what you found while conducting research

If a reader likes your stories, chances are they will enjoy it when you reveal the work that went into the stories but never made it into the text.

If you had to consult with a bladesmith or herbalist in order to write your book, share the more interesting details you learned from the expert.

4. Create a timeline for the events in your book

When fans are reading book eight in a series and you reference events in book three, they’re going to appreciate a timeline that makes it clear the order of events, and what sudden but inevitable betrayal lead to war.

5. Build a relationship graph

If you are writing books with a large cast of characters and multiple plotlines, chances are your readers will appreciate the help in identifying who did what to whom.

You can use a relationship graph to explain details referenced in the text, such as political alliances, familial connections, or dynastic inheritance.

P.S. If you do decide to make an infographic, please let me know.  I am not a good enough artist to charge for making an infographic, but I still get a kick out of them and would be happy to give you feedback on your work.

P.P.S. The infographic is licensed CC-BY, and can be shared freely.

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Comments


Mark Williams – The New Publishing Standard August 19, 2018 um 7:10 am

The possibilities are endless, but can you point us to any beginner’s guides to actually making these things?

Nate Hoffelder August 19, 2018 um 10:38 am

The Creative Penn has a comprehensive post, but I don’t know that I’d call it a beginner’s guide:
https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2017/05/05/infographics/

My real suggestion would be to go futz around with Canva. Seriously, I stumbled into making infographics after teaching myself book covers, blog graphics, and and handouts. I then went on to use my skills to make flyers.

I wonder if this might make for a good post?


Gloria Repp September 30, 2018 um 11:24 am

Looks like a great idea, and fun to do. (had to share on Twitter!)
So, after I’ve made an infographic, how do I use it? I don’t blog or have a mailing list, but maybe Facebook? Could I possibly include it at the end of my Kindle book? How would I use it on my website? Suggestions, please!

Nate Hoffelder September 30, 2018 um 11:31 am

Sharing on Facebook is good, or Twitter. I also share my infographics on Pinterest.

You can also put it on your site as a free download; I see you offer coloring book pages. An infographic isn’t going to appeal to the same audience but some will find it interesting.


Making Your First Infographic Is Easier Than You Think | The Digital Reader March 17, 2020 um 7:53 pm

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