Principles of Graphic Design

Creating graphics and documents that are interesting and visually appealing are important to entice the users to read or view the material. Following the principles of design attracts users to the document. These principles are also important for the user to continue reading the document and for retention of the information. An acronym to help remember four of the following principles comes from Robin Williams, a graphic design author. She calls them the CRAP principles: contrast, repetition, alignment and proximity.

Contrast

The page must have enough contrast in color and style to be readable. For example, you do not want to print dark blue text on a black background. Another principle of contrast is creating visually appealing documents with the size of objects or text.

Repetition

It is important to stay consistent throughout the design process. This aids the user in manipulating the document.

Alignment

Align objects and text in a way that is appealing (do not center everything). Alignment also helps keep proximity.

Proximity

Keep similar items close to each other and dissimilar items apart. The user will associate items that are close to each other as relative to each other.

Balance

Keep a balance throughout the document. This means that you do not want to have everything packed on one side. Keep enough white space so that the user does not become overstimulated.

Break the Rules

Once you have a good grasp on the design principles, occasionally misusing a design principle may create a more interesting design.