---
title: Gemini Sketchnotes
date: 2026-04-11T16:11:22+08:00
categories:
  - llms
---

I use this prompt to generate sketchnotes on Gemini:

> Draw this as a visually rich, intricately detailed, colorful, and funny, sketchnote.

Below that, I paste (or attach) whatever content I want it to draw.

I also turn on "Create Images" and switch the model to "Pro" (for better thinking.)

Here are some examples of how to use it.

**Summarize articles**. Pick email, report, news, or website.

Here's a sketchnote for this article: [How to use AI for research](/blog/how-to-use-ai-for-research/). I used the prompt above and pasted the article text.

![Sketchnote](https://files.s-anand.net/images/2026-04-03-how-to-use-ai-for-research.avif)

**Summarize presentations**. Pick any proposal, status update, project report, or meeting agenda.

Here's a sketchnote we emailed SNHU as pre-read before the meeting. I used the same prompt and attached the presentation. They loved the sketchnote!

![Sketchnote](https://files.s-anand.net/images/2026-02-27-snhu-preread.avif)

**Summarize books**. Pick any textbook, non-fiction, fiction, or anthology.

This sketchnote summarizes Morgan House's book [Same as Ever](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/125116554-same-as-ever)

![Sketchnote](https://files.s-anand.net/images/2025-12-28-same-as-ever.webp)

**Summarize talks**. Pick from YouTube, TED, podcast, or even meeting transcripts.

This sketchnote summarizes a [talk](https://youtu.be/XGO5ushzXMA?is=tsgd05UvRUb_oGM9) by [Rob Schrauwen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/robschrauwen) of Elsevier. He really liked the sketchnote too!

![Sketchnote](https://sanand0.github.io/talks/2025-07-18-tug-true-but-irrelevant-rob-schrauwen/sketchnote.avif)

**Explain a workflow**. Pick from any slide, architecture diagram, process document, or paper sketches.

This sketchnote documents a [proposal submission workflow](/blog/submitting-an-ai-ded-vizchitra-proposal/)

![Sketchnote](https://files.s-anand.net/images/2026-02-15-submitting-an-ai-ded-vizchitra-proposal.avif)

**NOTE**: For complex documents or long transcripts, I add this line so that Gemini thinks first and creates a more structured sketchnote:

> Think about the most important points, structure it logically so that the sketchnote is easy to follow, then draw it.

With sketchnotes, you unlock am interesting capability.

- It catches attention - it's colorful and engaging.
- It signals simplicity - so people are more likely to read it.
- It sets you apart - it's rare when people try something different.
- It's personal - you can create a distinct version tailored to _each_ audience - in minutes.

It takes just one prompt in front of any content. Try it out:

> Draw this as a visually rich, intricately detailed, colorful, and funny, sketchnote.