An Analysis of Text Functions in Information Visualization
Chase Stokes, Anjana Arunkumar, Marti A. Hearst, and Lace Padilla

TL;DR
This paper develops a comprehensive framework categorizing ten text functions in visualizations, based on analysis of real-world examples, revealing diverse roles of text in communicating and framing visual data.
Contribution
It introduces a detailed taxonomy of text functions in visualizations, filling gaps in prior classifications and identifying new roles like text replacing visual elements.
Findings
Identified ten distinct text functions in visualizations.
Revealed four overarching text-informed design strategies.
Uncovered new text functions such as text replacing visual elements.
Abstract
Text is an integral but understudied component of visualization design. Although recent studies have examined how text elements (e.g., titles and annotations) influence comprehension, preferences, and predictions, many questions remain about textual design and use in practice. This paper introduces a framework for understanding text functions in information visualizations, building on and filling gaps in prior classifications and taxonomies. Through an analysis of 120 real-world visualizations and 804 text elements, we identified ten distinct text functions, ranging from identifying data mappings to presenting valenced subtext. We further identify patterns in text usage and conduct a factor analysis, revealing four overarching text-informed design strategies: Attribution and Variables, Annotation-Centric Design, Visual Embellishments, and Narrative Framing. In addition to these factors,…
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Taxonomy
TopicsData Visualization and Analytics · Multimedia Communication and Technology · Web Data Mining and Analysis
