I need to make graphical abstract regarding optical communications research field. Can anyone kindly suggest any software or resources to make graphical abstract.
It seems to me that what you need is to make an infographic?
Excellent link the one suggested by Imre Horvath ... because you find several possibilities. Personally I work with Adobe tools, like photoshop, illustrator and indesign.
However, in this link you can make free infographics. There are templates that you can use, https://www.canva.com/create/infographics/
In my opinion, you don’t need any expensive or sophisticated software for this. You can use MS-Word or PowerPoint to make a decent graphical abstract with differ clip arts, shapes and picture. If higher version required, kindly go for photoshop.
The graphical abstracts are used in article to make the readers interest and clear understanding. You may try this to draw your graphical images. Graphical abstract drawing at very low cost (Starting price: 35 USD for 2D image) use the link: https://www.facebook.com/grapicmaster/ All you have to do is send a pencil drawing of your concept to be illustrated to them they will draw accordingly. Once drawn the graphical image of your illustration you can see the image and pay for it. It is very flexible and precise.