Graphic Novel Terms

Front

Speech Balloon

Back

A rounded or oval-shaped graphic containing characters' spoken words.

Front

Gutter

Back

The space between panels on a page, shows passage of time.

Front

Frame / Panel

Back

The lines and borders that contain the panels.

Front

Panel

Back

A single frame or box in which a single scene or action takes place.

Front

Thought Bubble

Back

Similar to a speech balloon, but used to represent a character's inner thoughts.

Front

Caption

Back

A box of text typically used for narration or providing additional information.

Front

Graphic Novel

Back

A book made up of comics content, often with a complex narrative.

Front

Bleed

Back

When the artwork extends beyond the edge of the page.

Front

Closure

Back

The process of observing parts and perceiving the whole, often used in comics to connect panels.

Front

Visual Metaphor

Back

An image that represents an idea or concept, often used to convey deeper meanings.