Designing is not an easy field. Especially because there are too many rules that you have to follow and which are extremely easy to break even with no intention to do so. Understanding the rules of design allows you to create something great. And when you succeed to keep it right, design really works.
Several simple tips will help you to create effective visuals to deliver the right message of your brand. We collected some basic design rules that everyone can use and follow to create good design work. So read carefully and learn what to do and what not to do in design.
Colors
The right colors in your design projects are the key. However, among the hundreds of shades and tones, it could be difficult to pick one. Here are simple tips you can use:
What you should DO — use color to highlight important information. In web design, pay more attention to links and accent them with the color.
What you should NOT DO — use more than 5 different colors for one layout.
Typography
Fonts and typography are also an important part of the design. It is also a part of thousands of options. Picking up the right style of typography you shouldn’t rely on your personal preferences. First of all, make it easy to read, users appreciate the simplicity.
Don’t use too many different options. Lots of people in order to make websites more unique use different fonts in one layout. This is a huge mistake as a website can get a messy look. Different options can become distractful for users and keep their attention from the important message.
Just make sure the font is readable and sort out spacing, and fits for your design.
Layout
The layout will be good only if the elements are set in the logical order. Users love it when everything is simple and intuitive. So, what you have to do is to guide users with the layout, they should understand how to navigate through the page. Keep it clear and concise.
Don’t ignore the alignment. Once again, aligning elements will help you to avoid mess and create symmetry and a good structure.
Space
Don’t be afraid of negative space. The core thing of the design is to present something visually. If you put too much information you probably bury the main idea under its load. So leave empty parts to highlight the important items and don’t put loads of information into limited small spaces.
Visuals
Visuals such as photography and various illustrations usually enhance the context in some way. However, you should remember that if they don’t bring any value, you should erase it from the design.
Always choose visuals in the same style and spirit as the whole project so they match it. And never use too complex decisions that have a chance to distract the eye.
Simplicity
We already talked about simplicity. But it’s worth the attention. The best designs are the simplest. Always keep in mind that when you design something you are trying to deliver your point of view, promote, or convince and it is not only about the visual part. The idea you put into the design should be clean and understandable. The effective way of how to do it, to make everything simple and straightforward.
Aim for clear design and don’t use needless elements, like shadow effects.
Listen to your customer
The attractiveness of your design loses its power if your customer is not satisfied. Take your time to analyze and listen to the customer’s wants and needs. This will be the perfect guide for you to create a convertible design concept.
To sum up
As you can see the rules and recommendations are pretty simple to follow. Nonetheless, these are the magic tools allowing to create the design that will be both visually attractive and clear for users. Explore the trends and use these small tips to always keep your design ideas appealing.