Any tips on how analyse images in the exam?

Ever played 'spot the difference'? It's kind of like that. A good way to start is to get your pen/pencil/highlighter and circle anything in the image that jumps out at you, without yet wondering why (that can come later). It could be the font used in a sign; the colour used for the font; the placement of the photo in the article; anything that would have involved a decision by the person who designed what you are analysing/took the photo you are analysing. Then, put yourself in the shoes of the person who made it an ask yourself WHY. What response were they trying to get by choosing that option? What response does it get from you, the observer? If something makes you smile, figure out why. If it makes you sad, figure out why. A bold colour like red will inspire violent emotions, whereas a more relaxed yellow or pink will be more likely to make you relaxed, or smile. Jazzy fonts inspire amusement, where serious fonts demand a serious response. Last of all, don't be afraid to make assumptions. If you're reacting in a certain way, it's probably a reaction that creator intended to draw from you. Go with it!

Sidenote: if you are being asked to analyse what you see in the image, ONLY analyse what you see. Though it's tempting, try not to draw on other facts you know: remember, what you see that jumps out at you, and what decision led to it doing so.

Answered by Abigail S. English tutor

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