How to write a good description for your custom icon request How to write a good description for your custom icon request

How to write a good description for your custom icon request

When submitting a custom icon request in BioRender, writing a clear and detailed description helps our Science Illustrators create exactly what you need. The Description field in the Icon Request Form is your opportunity to communicate your scientific intent and visual expectations.

Disclaimer: Icon request fulfillment is not guaranteed and depends on factors such as current scientific priorities, request volume, and complexity.


Who can request a custom icon?

This feature is available for Industry Team and Enterprise Plans. To browse plans, click here.

Where to add the icon description

When using the Icon Request form, please describe exactly what you need using relevant nouns, adjectives, and/or verbs in the description field.
iconFAQs_form_description.png

What to include in a good icon description

Depending on the icon youโ€™re requesting, your description may include:

1. What makes a good icon description_table-01.png

Example of a strong icon description

Weak description Strong description
"Make a virus" "Enveloped virus with surface glycoproteins and RNA genome inside"
"Something for cell division" "Animal cell in metaphase with visible spindle fibers and chromosomes aligned at equator"
"Show a receptor"

"Membrane receptor embedded in lipid bilayer with ligand bound to extracellular domain"

Why it matters

A strong icon description:

  • Reduces revision time
  • Helps the illustrator understand the scientific context
  • Ensures your final icon meets your visual communication needs

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Need help?

If you have any questions or concerns:

  1. Email Support: support@biorender.com
  2. Live Chat: Available by clicking on the "Help" bubble in the app on the bottom right-hand corner.