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Sample flowchart diagram


Discussion[change | change source]

The standard variation of the periodic table

In science the term is used in both ways. For example, Anderson (1997) stated more generally: "diagrams are pictorial, yet abstract, representations of information, and maps, line graphs, bar charts, engineering blueprints, and architects' sketches are all examples of diagrams, whereas photographs and video are not".[2] On the other hand, Lowe (1993) defined diagrams as specifically "abstract graphic portrayals of the subject matter they represent".[3]

Visual thinking[change | change source]

Kanizsa triangle: there is no drawn white triangle, yet we see one

Diagrams affect the mind so that the viewer comes to understand them, but not in the way one understands words. Visual thinking or problem-solving is very ancient, and largely automatic. One only has to remember that the brain puts together an image of the world around us based on sensory input, mostly sight. We do not make any conscious decisions: it is done without conscious thought. Diagrams most likely "tap in" to some of these ancient – but largely unknown – routines.

In fact these normally hidden brain processes do sometimes become apparent. When brain damage affects the visual cortex,[4] or when visual illusions are created,[5][6] are two classic examples.

The way some diagrams affect thinking is quite important. Mendeleev's periodic table summarised previous research on the elements. Far more important, though, was the way it suggested the properties of elements which were not yet discovered.[7] This diagram stimulated creative thought, and other examples from the history of science could be given: see Feynman diagram.

Basic diagram types[change | change source]

Examples[change | change source]

Some main diagram types[change | change source]

There are at least the following types of diagrams:

  • Graph-based diagrams: relationships are expressed as connections between the items or overlaps between the items; examples:

Schematics and other types of diagrams, e.g.,

References[change | change source]

English Wiktionary
The English Wiktionary has a dictionary definition (meanings of a word) for: diagram
  1. Brasseur, Lee E. 2003. Visualizing technical information: a cultural critique. Amityville, N.Y: Baywood Pub. ISBN 0-89503-240-6
  2. Michael Anderson (1997). "Introduction to Diagrammatic Reasoning". Retrieved 21 July 2008.
  4. Christine Roman-Lantzy 2007. Cortical visual impairment. New York: AFB Press. ISBN 0-89128-829-5
  5. Gregory R.L. 1970. The intelligent eye. Weidenfeld & Nicolson, London.
  7. Mendeleev, Dmitry Ivanovich; Jensen, William B. (ed) 2005. Mendeleev on the periodic law: selected writings, 1869–1905. Mineola, New York: Dover Publications. ISBN 0-486-44571-2