Elements & Principles

Question 1

Element: Line

Answer 1

• Organizer
• Gives eye direction
• Groups related objects
• Separates unrelated objects

Question 2

Element: Type

Answer 2

• Images and type speak two different languages
• Goal for words on a design: READ THEM
• Include: headers, captions, body copy and foot notes
• Readibility, voice and details are important aspects

Question 3

Element: Shape

Answer 3

• Area defined by a perimeter. Perimeter can be: line, value, color, etc.
• Design is the arrangement of shapes
• Must see each element as a shape
• Can be geometric or organic

Question 4

Element: Space

Answer 4

• Single most overlooked element in Graphic Design
• Most important step: first seeing it
• Positive and negative space should always balance each other
• Elements are viewed in relation to their surroundings
• Space is created when elements are placed

Question 5

Element: Texture

Answer 5

• Visual or tactile appearance of a surface

Question 6

Element: Color

Answer 6

• Simple
• Used to organize and establish hierarchy
• Too many colors add clutter

Question 7

Principle: Balance

Answer 7

• Distribution of visual weight of objects, colors, texture, line, space and shape.

Question 8

Symmetrical Balance

Answer 8

Elements on one side of the design are similar to elements on the other.

Question 9

Asymmetrical Balance

Answer 9

The sides of the design are different, but look balanced.

Question 10

Radial Balance

Answer 10

Elements are arranged around a central point and may be similar.

Question 11

Principle: Emphasis

Answer 11

• Part of the design that catches the viewer’s attention

- Often achieved by using contrast

Question 12

Principle: Movement

Answer 12

• The path the viewer’s eye takes through the work of design, often to focal areas

Question 13

Sequence of Movement

Answer 13

The way the viewer’s eye flows through a design

Question 14

Principle: Unity

Answer 14

• The feeling of harmony between all parts of the design, which creates a sense of completeness

Question 15

Principle: Contrast

Answer 15

• The arrangement of opposite elements (i.e. light and dark, rough versus smooth, large versus small, bright versus dull, etc.)
• Contrast can work with any design element

Question 16

Principle: Simplicity

Answer 16

• Freedom from complexity, intricacy or division into parts.

- Subtracting the obvious and adding the meaningful.