Average Rating: 
Rating:  - Little book with BIG impact!
Don't let the small size of this book fool you... in here is all the information you need to start improving the way you design. Composition, positioning, alignment, font usage, and a host of other topics are concisely and simply explained. A section on color usage would have been appreciated, but would probably price the book out of its target audience. Williams's sense of humor may not be for everybody, but the information she presents is absolutely invaluable. Williams presents good design, bad design, and works to explain what elements make the former work. After reading this book, I started sub-conciously analyzing almost everything around me, from web sites to advertisements, and was able to identify well-designed ones from poorly-designed ones, and what they did right or wrong. No, you will not become an award-winning graphics designer after one read, but your understanding of principles, and your ability to apply them will increase dramatically. An extremely worthwhile investment for the beginner who needs to suddenly improve his design skills.
Rating: - The first step in teaching yourself graphic design.
This was my first purchase in Williams's "non-designer" series, and it absolutely transformed the way I understand visual communications. I've always had good verbal skills, but I needed help with the visual part, once I found myself in a job requiring lots of layout and web design.Williams's approach to teaching is based in principles (like, "Pick an imaginary line running down the page and relate all your visual elements to it."), which she then supports with example after example. It matches my learning style precisely. Once I've grasped the principle, I can apply it again and again, as indeed I have in the past year and a half since I read this book. It serves as a solid foundation for the rest of the series, especially the "Non-Designer's Type Book," which should be the second of her books you read, in my opinion. I couldn't have accomplished in my job what I have without this book's help. It's not a reference book, but an essential introduction to sound design principles, which, once grasped, stick with you forever.
Rating: - Enhance your skills, communicate your vision!
This is an excellent book for many types of people - non-designers, office personnel, individuals, novices, students, and self-made designers.Although the book may seem simple, there are many words of wisdom and guiding rules that can enhance *any* design. Unlike boring compendiums, this is fresh and fun. It will allow you to take your ideas and designs to the next level, and add both spice and professionalism! Robin Williams works hard to make a vibrant text and compelling examples. There is just the right mix of technical terminology and easy-to-understand dialogue. With a simple step-by-step formula, you will be able to break down and improve your own work, as well as the work of "professionals." I highly recommend this to anyone who does any form of print or web communication. This is a whole lot of bang without any bore. It's my gift and reference of choice. Don't hesitate!
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