1. How to use this book

This book provides a very practical approach to better whiteboard sketches. Although the techniques are based on sound research and practical usage, the theory is kept to a minimum and you can get started with techniques almost immediately.

Here are some suggestions for using the book:

  • To remind yourself of the techniques, print or see the Quick Reference guide.
  • To practise the techniques, use the exercises at the end of each chapter and see the Case Studies.
  • To understand how to use whiteboard sketches for better conversations and in-erson explanations, see Chapter 3
  • To learn how to use colour effectively in whiteboard sketches, see Chapter 2
  • To learn how and why to identify and represent key concepts, see Chapter 1

The three central chapters each contain a set of exercises for you to try out the techniques you have learnt.

1.1 Conventions used in the book

A box with a whiteboard symbol shows an important aspect of Better Whiteboard Sketches:

A box with a key symbol shows a useful tip:

A callout with an ‘i’ symbol shows some general information:

A pen writing indicates exercises for the reader.