Bullet points: Applying emotional symbols in information management

Abstract

Bullet points are a set of symbols commonly used in typesetting to organise and present different points or notes in a well-organised list. Various shape options for bullet symbols, such as circular, square, dot, or diamond shapes. At the same time, some word processors and publishing design software offer other shapes and colour options. In handwriting, bullet points are usually drawn in any freestyle at the preference of the creator. This could reveal that specific user’s select bullet symbols based merely on their preferences without concerning the use of bullet points and icons regarding the nature of communication, not to mention the feeling or mood that these bullets symbols project onto the reader. Misconceptions sometimes create chaos for communication. This study aimed to investigate the nature of the bullet system and how the application of bullet points constructs the information hierarchy. It also assesses the influence of bullet symbols on the organisation and typesetting structure of a document.