Know your tools.

The Adobe Creative Suite is the most commonly used software for design work. It’s programs are very powerful, and very few people have truly mastered every tool within the software. They can be used for so many things if you gain enough knowledge and experience. There are many alternative tools we use, some of which are even free, however we always recommend using and learning to use the best tool for the job.

It takes years to master, but only weeks to understand the basics. Watch tutorials to find an effect you want to replicate. There are many free and/or paid resources available at your disposal.

Know the differences

Between RGB, CMYK, Pantone colors, HEX codes, etc. If you start copying and pasting between programs and realize your colors are messed up, there’s a 99% chance the problem lies within the Document Mode and color setup. Also know the difference between raster and vector.

Typography is *The Most* important

At the very minimum, know the difference between serif and sans-serif fonts, along with what kerning, leading, tracking, and line-heights are. Typography is the foundation all graphic design tends to revolve around on and roughly 90% of the work we do will involve working with typography. Get started by reading this.

Color Theory is important.

Play around in Adobe Color to understand how complementary colors work together, what analogous means, why different shades of colors look better than others, etc.

Focus on the details

while keeping it simple. If this sounds hypocritical, good. Details do not have to be synonymous with “complicated.” The details are the pixel perfect design changes you make to improve something.

Know who and what you’re designing for

Target that audience, there’s no need to appeal to everyone.

Learn about grids

First understand grids before you learn to break them.

Ask for Constructive Criticism.

Take it positively, keep an open mind. Be ready to be wrong. It’s the only way you’ll learn. If you’re on a high horse, get down. We all like positive feedback and compliments but they don’t usually help you grow as a person unless they are done in a way to point out what you are doing well or what is working.

Learn to Intelligently talk about your work. And ask Questions!

Be able to explain why you made certain design choices, especially when that criticism comes around.

If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask them.

Places like google, ChatGPTs, and Reddit are always usually a good place to ask and get answers to your questions.

“Keep it Simple, Stupid”

A common phrase often held to the highest praise in the design community. There is often little reason to add extra filters and effects to a design. Chances are they don’t need to be there. Some of the best examples of impactful graphic design work is the ones that keep it simple.

Graphic Designer Video Training Courses for Self-Improvement

Please watch these videos for some serious self-improvement and to prepare you for the basics of most Graphic Design jobs. If relevant, also practice using the techniques in your actual programs instead of just watching the videos. Don’t be afraid to pause videos, rewatch sections, or skip sectioins if you are certain you already know the functionality.