People with aphantasia may process information through words (left) rather than mental images (right).

What's Aphantasia?

Aphantasia is a condition where people do not visualize, or “see,” images in their minds. Instead, they think using words, numbers or ideas.

Is Aphantasia a disability?

Aphantasia is not a disability. It’s just a different way of processing information and recalling memories. About 4 percent of people have this uncommon way of thinking.

Aphantasia Example:

Close your eyes and imagine a fluffy cat. What color is the cat? What is the cat doing? When asked such questions, many people’s minds will conjure up a lifelike image. But those with aphantasia do not. People with aphantasia know they are thinking of a cat. They can even describe what a cat generally looks like. But they do so without using a mental image.