figureshort

Figureshort is a term used in some editorial and web-design contexts to describe a compact visual representation that accompanies text without displaying a full-size figure. A figureshort is typically a small thumbnail image, an inline SVG, or a succinct infographic designed to convey the core idea of a larger figure in a minimal form. It is intended for inline use within articles, guides, or dashboards where space, load time, or reader attention are priorities.

In practice, a figureshort includes a brief caption or label and alt text, and is often scaled to a small dimension. It may be linked to a full figure or data source for readers who want more detail. Designers favor high-contrast visuals and simplified data encoding to preserve readability at reduced sizes. The content should be faithful to the underlying data and avoid misleading oversimplifications.

Workflow and guidelines for creating figureshorts typically involve deriving the essential information from a full figure, maintaining consistent visual language with other graphics, and ensuring accessibility. Use vector formats such as SVG when possible for sharp rendering across devices, provide descriptive alt text, and include attribution if the data or artwork originates elsewhere.

See also: thumbnail image, inline figure, figcaption, data visualization. Figureshort is not a universally standardized term, but a practical concept used to balance information density with readability in modern digital publishing.