It is known as an annex to an added element and, depending on its context, it works to complement, deepen or expand. An annex is not considered an indispensable component, that is, its existence is not necessary to understand the main or central element. However, it maintains a close and dependent link with it, therefore, being added is usually considered a plus with high benefits. No it should interpret the annexes as unnecessary elements but its definition can project them that way.

Now, in general, annexes are used in works or written texts and are located at the end of these. It fulfills the task of detailing and exhibiting in a specific way and from another perspective the processes or facts expressed in the body of the work. That is, they are experiences lived and written by third parties, not by the main author. The information embodied in the work nourishes and enriches Annex. However, it is considered additional or extra, if it is omitted it does not affect the writing and understanding of the text.

On the other hand, from the field of construction and architecture, it is considered as an annex to an aggregate of the building, house or main office. In this area, the main objective it pursues is physical expansion. It seeks and intends to be able to house more people, inhabitants or employees in a building that is not separated from the main one. This can be totally or partially independent. For its part, another way of understanding the term annex is by using ‘secondary’ and ‘accessory’ as a synonym.

Types of annexes in written texts

• Maps: Its function is focused on locating the reader from the geographical space, it contributes to the understanding of the text, especially when the subject names territorial details.
• Images and photographs: It is characterized by having illustrative information, locates the reader from the visual and contributes to the understanding of what is described by the text.
• Infographic: As its name indicates, it provides information from the descriptive visual point of view. Use image and text as a resource to understand complex issues.
• Diagrams: It is usually used to didactically understand the theme expressed in the text, it is also characterized by being illustrative.
• Graphics: This type of annex is characterized by expressing information and quantitative data. It is usually applied and added together with a survey for specific and detailed analysis of the results.
• Glossary: It is applied and added when the subject studied deals with complex or characteristic terms of a specific area. It is usually written in alphabetical order.

Examples of annexes

• Some Bibles of the Christian religion have maps as annexes.
• A glossary must be added to scientific and technical research.
• Some fantasy and fiction books include maps to locate the reader.
• In participatory research, images or photographs are usually added to show the processes or events that occurred.
• Historians often add drawings and illustrations of their findings to their research.
• Surveys carried out to understand a situation during an investigation are usually presented as an annex in the form of a table or graph.