How to Explain Problems Clearly with Images

Why Words Alone Often Fail

"The button on the right side of the screen doesn't work when I click it after scrolling down."

Which button? Which screen? What happens when you click? What should happen?

Text descriptions of visual problems are inherently ambiguous. A screenshot with annotations removes the guesswork.

The Anatomy of a Clear Visual Explanation

1. Show the Context

Don't crop too tightly. Include enough surrounding area so viewers understand where they're looking.

2. Highlight the Focus

Use arrows, circles, or boxes to draw attention to the specific element you're discussing.

3. Add Brief Labels

Short text annotations like "Click here" or "This should be blue" clarify your intent.

4. Show the Sequence

For multi-step problems, combine screenshots in order. Number them if needed.

5. Compare Expected vs Actual

Place "what I expected" next to "what I got" for instant clarity.

Common Scenarios

Bug Reports

• Screenshot of the error state
• Arrows pointing to the problem area
• Text describing expected behavior
• Steps to reproduce (as numbered screenshots)

Feature Requests

• Current state screenshot
• Mockup or reference of desired state
• Annotations explaining the change

Tutorial Creation

• Sequential screenshots of each step
• Numbered annotations
• Highlights on clickable elements

Design Feedback

• Screenshot of the design
• Circles around areas needing attention
• Reference images for comparison

Quick Tips

• Less is more: Don't over-annotate. Focus on what matters.
• Use consistent colors: Red for problems, green for solutions.
• Blur sensitive info: Protect passwords, personal data, and proprietary information.
• One image, one point: If you have multiple issues, consider multiple images.

Create Clear Visual Explanations

Combine screenshots, add annotations, and communicate more effectively.

Try PictriKit