1. C.R.A.P. Design Principles
Adapted from & Robin Williams “Non- Designers Design Book”
Borrowed from Lisa Dawley, Ph.D., Boise State University

2. Contrast
Elements that aren’t the same should be very different so they stand out. Making them “slightly different” confuses the user into seeing a relation that doesn’t exist.

6. Repetition
Repeat visual elements of the design throughout the piece. You can repeat color, shape, texture, spatial relationships, line thicknesses, sizes, etc. This helps develop the organization and strengthens the unity.
1. Headings and subheadings.
2. Colors
3. Rules
4. Images
5. Graphical elements & logos

7. Repetition
Before
After

8. Repetition

9. Alignment
Nothing should be placed on the page arbitrarily. Every element should have some visual connection with another element on the page.

10. Alignment Examples
Left alignment
No alignment

11. More alignments
Centered alignment
Right alignment

12. Proximity
Elements that are related should be grouped together, whereas separate design elements should have enough space in between to communicate they are different.

13. Before
After

14. Before
After

15. Fonts