What Is Visual Thinking?

Do you know how sometimes you just KNOW something?

It’s so easy for you to understand.

But when you try to explain it, you struggle to put it into words.

That’s how I feel about visual thinking*.

It’s so intuitive for me.

I just know what it is.

But when I’m asked to explain it, I have a hard time finding the right words.

Here’s my attempt to describe what visual thinking is.

First, let me borrow someone else’s words:

“Visual thinking is a way to organize your thoughts and improve your ability to think and communicate. It’s a fantastic way to convey complex or potentially confusing information.

It’s also about using tools—like pen and paper, index cards, and software tools—to externalize your internal thought processes, making them clearer, more concrete, and actionable.”

Dave Gray, Xplaner, Visual Thinking School

But… what does that mean?

Visual thinking = Thinking visually = Making your thought process visual

Okay… but visual HOW?

Get it out of your head and make it tangible.

So you can see it, feel it, touch it, move it.

Here are some examples:

So basically, it’s not about what it is or how it looks—it’s about getting your thoughts out of your head and making them tangible.

A bit like holding your thoughts in your hand.

That’s it!

It’s that simple.

So when I combine visual thinking with project management, I use visual aids to make project management more tangible.

This makes it easier to create shared understanding, engagement, and ownership for everyone involved.

If you want to try it for yourself, download my free e-book: "How to Draw 20 Icons for Projects."

In it, I’ll show you how easy it is to get started, and you’ll be drawing within an hour—I promise!

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If you want to learn more about visual thinking, I recommend watching this 30-minute video by Brandy Agerbeck, where she explains how she defines visual thinking. I really encourage you to watch the video and be inspired by her passion.

Or check out her website to learn more about her—she’s a HUGE inspiration to me.

If you’re interested in Dave Gray and his Visual Thinking School, head over to his website and read more.