Graphic Design · Beginner level

Beginner level · Module 1 of 5 · 10 guided hours

Design Principles

Use contrast, hierarchy, alignment, proximity and space to make designs clear.

Learning objectives

  • Create visual hierarchy with contrast and size
  • Align and group elements deliberately
  • Use negative space and repetition

Topics

  • contrast
  • hierarchy
  • alignment
  • proximity
  • balance
  • negative space and repetition

Lessons

  1. Lesson 1 Contrast and Hierarchy

    Guide the viewer's eye to the most important information first.

    contrastvisual hierarchyfocal pointreading order

  2. Lesson 2 Alignment, Proximity and Balance

    Organise elements so a design looks ordered and easy to follow.

    alignmentproximitysymmetry and asymmetryvisual balance

  3. Lesson 3 Negative Space and Repetition

    Give designs room to breathe and a consistent rhythm.

    negative spacemarginsrepetitionconsistency

Practical activity

Redesign a cluttered event poster so the most important information is seen first, using only the principles taught.

Expected outcomes

  • Clear, readable layouts
  • A vocabulary for discussing design

Assessment

Before-and-after redesign with a short explanation of the principles applied.

Free taster lesson Introduction to Graphic Design Principles Read a free self-study lesson on this topic in the Free Course Library.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.