Graphic Design Theory!

Here is great article for those who are still not certain that every aspect of art even graphic must have some basic strong guideline to make things better and to secure quality.

By Vitaly Friedman

As designers, we often focus on the practical aspects of design above all else. We focus on what works, with little regard for why it works. And in our day-to-day work, that outlook serves us well. It lets us get our work done in an efficient, professional manner, and generally nets good results.
But spending some time on the theory behind the graphic design principles we use every day can expand our design horizons. It can open up new avenues of creativity and experimentation that can lead our designs from just good, to fantastic. On that note, below are 50 excellent resources and articles that discuss graphic design theory, including layout, color theory, and typography. Feel free to share additional resources and articles in the comments.

There are a lot of general design theories and principles out there that apply to all forms of design, whether in digital or print mediums. These include things like balance and scale, as well as more abstract topics like emotion and what makes for “good” design.

Graphic Design Theory?
This article from the AIGA archives offers a broad discussion of graphic design theory, offering guidance for designers on a host of topics, including their place within the current DIY culture.

How Good is Good?
This article from Typotheque talks about good design in relation to what the design is for, especially in relation to non-profit causes. There’s a heavy dose of ethical considerations here, as well as some practical information on what makes a good design.

Can Graphic Design Make You Cry?
This article from Design Observer discusses the question, “How…could you make design that communicated to human beings and deliberately drain it of all human content?”

Ten Graphic Design Paradoxes
This article discusses ten of the most common statements or opinions about graphic designers (or said by graphic designers) that are contrary to accepted wisdom. Included are things like “For designers, verbal skills are as important as visual skills,” and “I’m a professional: I know best.”

The Lost Principles of Design
An illustrated guide to the basic principles of graphic design. Included are explanations of balance, contrast, emphasis and subordination, directional forces, and proportion, among others.

The Laws of Simplicity
This article is actually excerpted material from the book of the same name by John Maeda. It covers ten basic principles to guide simple and minimalist designs.

Dudes and Dolls and Design Decisions
This post by Jacob Cass discusses the psychological differences to consider when designing for men or women. It’s a practical discussion of what women respond to versus men, as well as how to effectively design for both.

The Complexity of Simplicity
This article discusses how complex simplicity can actually be, including perceived versus actual simplicity.

Want to Know How to Design? Learn the Basics
This article discusses the most basic principles of graphic design, including color, shape, scale and size, and space, among others. Additional resources for each are also included.

C.R.A.P.: The Four Principles of Sound Design
This article from DailyBlogTips offers up information on four basic principles of good design: Contrast, Repetition, Alignment, and Proximity (C.R.A.P.).

Classic Graphic Design Theory
Don’t let the design of this site fool you; the content contained here offers a great overview of classic graphic design principles, like shape, texture, movement, balance and unity.

Simplicity is Highly Overrated
This article discusses simplicity and the idea that it’s not actually what consumers want.


Full article here ;)