A Visual Library (also called a “Visual Vocabulary” or “Visual Dictionary”) is a mental collection of all the images you know how to draw from memory and use on a regular basis.  

Visual libraries contain many literal things like objects, people, etc. but also may contain more complicated images representing abstract concepts, ideas, and visual metaphors. Every sketchnoter has a Visual Library, but you may need some help to build it up and organize it.  

In this course you will:
✓ Discover and document what is already in your Visual Library

✓ Grow the amount of images in your Visual Library

✓ Organize your Visual Library


Before we begin:
Iterating in public and sharing your work online has immense value to your personal practice and growth. I urge you to share your work online or with others in your community because we can all learn from each other. I know it can be intimidating because it's easy to compare ourselves to others, but please be brave and share! If you decide to post your Visual Library on Instagram, please use the hashtag #sketchacademy and #VisualLibrary so others can find your work, and feel free to mention @sketchacademy_

How to get the most from this course:

  • Have Basic Drawing Skills • You'll get the most out of this course if you have basic drawing skills (I'm talking simple objects and stick men!). If you need a refresher, take the free course "Drawing for Beginners" before you start. 

  • Slow Down • It's easy to want to read through everything quickly and finish the course to feel accomplished, but you won't absorb the lessons if you do this. Instead, take your time to slowly read through the instructions and actually do the exercises before you move on.

  • Raise Your Hand • Figuratively, of course! My primary goal is to make sure this course is helpful, valuable, and makes sense. If something isn't right for you, please let me know at emily@sketchnoteacademy.com. Your feedback will help make this course better for everyone who takes it after you.


  • Let’s get started!