Graphics may be used to condense or summarize information, to illustrate or highlight information, or to add extra details. You are expected to understand the graphic and integrate the information into the written text. Always preview the graphics before reading, and by all means, do not ignore them. Authors often arrange the material by using patterns of information. If you are able to recognize these patterns, it may help you to better understand the reading.
Listing is used by authors to list details that support the main idea.
Illustrations or examples are often given when an author wants to create a clearer picture of the main idea. The comparison pattern connects two or more people, places, things, or ideas by describing how they are alike. The contrast pattern examines two or more people, places, things, or ideas by describing the differences between them. The cause and effect pattern is used by authors to discuss the reasons why something has happened or will happen in the future. The problem and solution pattern presents a problem to be identified, considered, explained, or solved.