Difference Between Drawing and Diagram

Main Difference – Drawing and Diagram

Drawing is the art or technique of representing an object or outlining a figure, plan, or sketch by means of lines. Diagram is a simplified illustration showing the appearance, structure, or workings of something. The main difference between drawing and diagram is that drawing is an accurate and realistic representation of an object or figure whereas diagram is a schematic representation.Difference Between Drawing and Diagram - infographic

What is a Drawing

Drawing is one of the primary forms of expression in visual art. Drawing can be defined as the art or technique of representing an object or outlining a figure, plan or sketch by means of lines. It is a picture made with a pencil, pen, or crayon rather than paint.

Drawing produces an accurate representation of the visual world upon a plane surface such as paper, cardboard or canvas. Different instruments like pencils, pen and ink, wax color pencils, crayons, inked brushes, and charcoal can be used in drawing.

Difference Between Drawing and Diagram

A Drawing

What is a Diagram

A diagram is a symbolic representation of information; it explains the appearance, structure, or workings of something. Diagrams can be classified into various subcategories; charts, graphs, and schematics can fit into these subcategories.  

Diagram, unlike drawing, is not an actual representation of a scene. It merely explains some important facts and figures about a topic. It is a representation made for scientific or technical purpose. Therefore, a diagram may convey more information than a drawing. This information is also presented clearly in a diagram.

Main Difference - Drawing vs Diagram

A Schematic Diagram

Another difference between drawing and diagram is the artistic skills needed for them. A realistic and accurate drawing requires a considerable artistic skill, but an accurate diagram only requires basic skills in drawing.

Difference Between Drawing and Diagram

Definition

Drawing is the art or technique of representing an object or outlining a figure, plan or sketch by means of lines.

Diagram is a simplified illustration showing the appearance, structure, or workings of something.

Representation

Drawing is an accurate and realistic representation of something.

Diagram is a schematic representation of something.

Skills

Drawings require considerable artistic skills.

Diagram requires only basic skills.

Field

Drawing is a form of visual art.

Diagrams are created for scientific and technical purposes.

Information

Drawings may not convey any information.

Diagrams convey information in a clear manner.

Image Courtesy:

“Ingres Montagu” – scanned by Ulli Purwin – (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia

“Diagram of the human heart” By Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia

About the Author: Hasa

Hasanthi is a seasoned content writer and editor with over 8 years of experience. Armed with a BA degree in English and a knack for digital marketing, she explores her passions for literature, history, culture, and food through her engaging and informative writing.