The Affinity logo
Pre-class Prep
A. Download / install Affinity for free
Head to https://www.affinity.studio/, create an account, and download the correct version of Affinity for your operating system. Once installed, open the app to confirm it runs successfully. The first time you launch Affinity, you’ll be prompted to log in or create a free Canva account.
The free version of Affinity includes all the features you’ll likely need for this course. That said, since Affinity became a Canva product in 2024, you can unlock additional AI-powered tools if you have a Canva Premium account. Lucky for us, UCSB provides free Canva premium access for students, staff, and faculty. Learn more about how to activate your Canva for Campus premium account.
B. Download saved ggplots
We’ll learn how to use Affinity to edit exported ggplots and transform them into (mini) infographics. Download both the PNG and PDF versions of this plot ahead of class.
C. (Optional, but recommended) Create an account with The Noun Project
The Noun Project provides access to millions of visual assets (symbols, icons, photos) for your graphic design needs.
Lecture Materials
| Lecture slides | Exercise materials |
|---|---|
| MEDS Affinity Designer Workshop | Additional infographic elements |
Pre-lab Prep
None!
Lab Materials
| Lab Slides | Exercise instructions | Exercise solutions |
|---|---|---|
| You should have a favorite data story | Scrollytelling Tutorial |
Assignment Reminders
| Assignment Type | Assignment Title | Date Assigned | Date Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| HW | Homework #3 | Wed 02/04/2026 | Wed 02/11/2026, 11:59pm PT |
| FPM | Final Project Milestone #3 | Wed 02/11/2026 | Sun 02/22/2026, 11:59pm PT |