Repetition

Definition:

One of the principles of design, repetition is the duplication of the same element or style throughout a page layout or document. Repetition is often paired with or used to mean the same thing as consistency in a discussion of good graphic design principles.

Examples of Repetition in Desktop Publishing

• Repeating Colors, Patterns and Shapes, and Words - the same colors and patterns throughout pull this composition together.

• Repeating Content Elements - a repeated theme (the #5) reinforces the message in this composition.

• Repeating Elements for Page-to-Page Consistency - while the images and the fonts are different on each page, repeating the same grid and alignment pulls the spread together.

Using Repetition in Desktop Publishing Documents

"The next time you find yourself lamenting your lack of clip art, lack of skill, or lack of time — repeat yourself. Find that single piece of clip art and make a statement by using it 2, 3, 4, or a dozen times." — It Bears Repeating: You Don't Have to be an Artist to Use Clip Art Effectively

While repeating the same image over and over without a purpose is boring, using it to make a point does work. Enhance the repetition by tying it into the text or making slight or dramatic differences in each repetition to reinforce a message.

"Readers gain comfort from having certain elements repeat themselves at consistent intervals or in the same position. " — Provide Comfort for Readers with Repetition

Repeating the use of the same fonts, colors, and placement of elements such as page numbers provides a comforting rhythm to a publication. Using style sheets helps to maintain consistency when repeating fonts and font styles.

Also Known As: consistency | duplication | rhythm