1.In a nutshell, what is McCloud's definition of comics?

Juxtaposed pictorial and other images in deliberate sequence.

He uses repetitions, pictures, and counterarguments to explain them.

2.What is an icon and why is it important? What are the three vertices on McCloud's triangle and what is he getting to?

An icon is any image used to represent a person, place, thing or idea and they are important because they represent invisible ideas. The 3 points are the picture plane, reality, and language. He's explaining the different methods that artists use to relay their message in their comic. For example the picture plane comics have lots of meaning behind them so they don't have to impress with cool pictures. They can be basic and be seen for what they are.

3.How can we, as non-comics, amplify information by simplifying?

We can use simpler, broader descriptions or terms to open up to a more general audience. If we are too specific, or focus on the wrong thing, we will lose the reader's attention or only attract certain people who accept that certain type of writing.