1. Higher Desktop Publishing (DTP)

2. DTP - Principals and Elements
Good Graphic Design relies on the designer understanding what makes layout look good. Desk Top Publishing and Graphic Design is broken down into smaller parts and works with each part in turn. These are called Principals and Elements

3. Principals and Elements
Make a mind map for both DTP Principals and Elements
Write a description for every principal and element on the list below
Principals
Elements
Contrast
Line
Repetition & Rhythm
Shape
Alignment
Colour
Proximity & Unity
Texture
White Space
Mass / Weight
Depth
Size
Balance
Value
Dominance/Emphasis
Proportion

4. Elements Line – used to divide up or connect elements on a page
Shape – can help organise a page and separate items. Geometric, natural or abstract
Size – large items are more dominant
Colour - colour theory basics, used to create moods and stimulate emotions
Texture - actual or simulated tactile quality.
Mass (weight) – all items have mass.
Value -

5. Principals
White Space – leaving areas free of text and graphics. Lets the eye rest or direct the eye.
Balance – items on the page are symmetrical. Asymmetrical layouts can create contrast movement and excitement
Contrast – introducing elements that are different. Eye catching
Repetition (rhythm) - Repeat visual elements of the design throughout the element of the page.
Alignment – align elements on the page deliberately. This connects visual elements to achieve a structured look
Proximity (unity) - Items relating to each other should be group close together. Can be created by the use of colour throughout.
Depth – can be added to create emphasis/unity
Dominance (emphasis) - items on the page need greater emphasis than others, these can be made to dominate the page
Proportion -

8. Principals and Elements
Edit this business card to improve the visual impact focusing on the principals and elements.

9. Grid and Gridlines
Magazine page – annotate gridlines including; columns, gutters, headers, footers,

10. 3Ps of Graph Com Create thumbnails for an A5 article titled
‘ What are the 3 p’s in Graphic Communication?’

11. Top Tips
Do not use ALL CAPS for headings. Use the standard headline style for headers. Capitalize the first letter of each word in the title, except for prepositions composed of three letters or less. It decreases readability when all words of a headline or title are caps.
Space once at the end of a sentence. Many have been taught to space twice when ending a sentence, but this is not true. According to the standard rules of desktop publishing, there should only be one space following a punctuation mark.
Don’t go overboard with fonts. With so many fonts to choose from, it’s no surprise anyone would want to experiment and use as many as possible. To create a clean and organized document, use as few fonts as possible. Some of the most popular and accepted fonts are Times New Roman, Arial, and Georgia.