Graphic design encompasses the creation of a great many types of projects but for the purposes of these lessons we're focusing on the elements and principles of design as they apply to typical desktop publishing projects including logos, ads, brochures, business cards, newsletters, books, and to some extent, Web pages.
Different instructors or designers have their own idea about the basic principles of design but most are encompassed in the 6 principles of:
- balance
- proximity
- alignment
- repetition or consistency
- contrast
- white space
Through words and pictures, the next two lessons introduce each of these principles.
Even though no one will know whether you actually do the exercises and assignments included with each lesson and class, I strongly encourage you to do so. It will help to reinforce your understanding of each of the concepts covered throughout this Graphic Design Basics course.
Next > Expanded definitions of the Principles of Design
Graphic Design Basics Course > Principles of Design Classes > Introduction to the Principles of Design
Submit an Article or Review for Desktop Publishing
Share your design or software expertise. Sound off on issues relevant to desktop publishing. Submit an article on any aspect of desktop publishing or a review of software, books, or other desktop publishing tools.
Submission Guidelines
| Pick Your Path to Desktop Publishing | |
| Get Started: | Basic Guidelines and Requirements for Desktop Publishing |
| Choose Software: | Desktop Publishing and Design Software |
| Tips & Tutorials: | How to Do Desktop Publishing |
| Training, Education, Jobs: | Careers in Desktop Publishing |
| In the Classroom: | Back to School With Desktop Publishing |
| Make Something: | Things to Make for the Holidays |
| Use Templates: | Templates for Print and Web Publishing |
