The

GRAPHIC DESIGN.
FULL COURSE

A GUIDE TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM WITH GRAPHIC DESIGN

SIMPLICITY IS THE ART OF ACHIEVEMENT!

PRESENTED BY :

YOUNG MILLIONAIRES ACADEMY X ETUBERS

FORWARDED BY:

MIKE M. (MBA, MSc)

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OUR OFFICIAL CONTACTS:

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Email: [email protected]

Medium: https://medium.com/@etubers

Website: etubers.org

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Contents
Preliminary..............................................................................................................................4
Module 1 : Introduction to Graphic Design.................................................................. 5
- Understanding Graphics Design......................................................................................5
- How Graphic Design works (The Process)....................................................................10
- Graphic Design Softwares............................................................................................. 12
- Setting Up Your Designing Workspace..........................................................................12
- Photoshop Interface Overview.......................................................................................12
- Before Designing........................................................................................................... 14

Module 2 : Design Theory and Principles.................................................................. 15

- Visual Elements............................................................................................................. 15
- Design Principles........................................................................................................... 19
- Purpose of Designs....................................................................................................... 22

Module 3 : Introduction to Adobe PS..........................................................................26

- Creating New Doc..........................................................................................................26
- Workspaces (Essentials - Reset)...................................................................................26
- Tools Overview.............................................................................................................. 26
- Options Bar....................................................................................................................26
- Ruler, Grids and Smart Guides......................................................................................26
- Navigation and Zooming................................................................................................26

Module 4 : Adobe PS Designing..................................................................................27

- Layers............................................................................................................................ 27
- Multiple layering.............................................................................................................27
- Overlays and Blending Modes.......................................................................................27
- Cropping and Resizing.................................................................................................. 27
- Adjustments................................................................................................................... 28
- Masks............................................................................................................................ 28
- Color Grading................................................................................................................ 28

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 - Filters............................................................................................................................. 28
- Transforming and Warping............................................................................................ 28

Module 5 : Practical Examples.................................................................................... 29

Example 1: Logo Design..................................................................................................29
Example 2: Creative Ads................................................................................................. 29
Example 3: Case Study ( Branding )................................................................................29

Module 6 : Saving and Sharing Projects.................................................................... 30

- Saving as a PSD Project............................................................................................... 30
- Export Settings.............................................................................................................. 30
- Uploading and Sharing.................................................................................................. 30

Module 7 : Final Project and Certification.................................................................. 30

- Final Project...................................................................................................................30
- Reviewing Final Projects............................................................................................... 30
- Certifications.................................................................................................................. 30

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Preliminary

Objective of the Course

This graphic design course equips you with the essential skills to embark on a

successful career in this dynamic field. While this course offers a comprehensive

foundation, it acknowledges the ever-evolving nature of graphic design and focuses on

equipping you with the core tools and thought processes to excel in your future

endeavors.

After this Full course you'll learn

Gain the fundamental skills needed to be a graphic designer

Communicate through image-making and typography

Complete a capstone project with Adobe Photoshop

Learn everything you need to know to work in Graphic Design

Do practical examples with the instructor

Exercise with practical case studies

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 Module 1 : Introduction to Graphic Design

- Understanding Graphics Design

Definition of Graphics Design

Graphic design is the art of creating visual content, which includes using typography,

images, colors, and shapes to communicate a message.

Its ultimate goal is to make information easy to comprehend.

Graphic design can be applied to various media, such as print, digital, web, and

animation.

Pixel

A pixel is the smallest unit of a digital image, usually a square or a dot.

Pixels are arranged in a grid to form an image.

Each pixel has a color value, which determines how it appears on the screen.

The more pixels an image has, the higher its resolution and quality.

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Resolution

Resolution is the measure of how many pixels an image has in a given area, such as

width and height.

Resolution is usually expressed in pixels per inch (PPI) for digital images, and dots

per inch (DPI) for print images.

Higher resolution images have more detail and clarity, but also require more storage

space and processing power.

Understanding DPI, PPI, LPI

DPI, and PPI are different ways of measuring resolution for different purposes.

- DPI (dots per inch) is the number of ink dots that a printer can produce on a paper.

DPI affects the sharpness and quality of a printed image. The higher the DPI, the

smoother and clearer the image. A common DPI value for print is 300.

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- PPI (pixels per inch) is the number of pixels that a digital device can display on a

screen. PPI affects the size and quality of a digital image. The higher the PPI, the

smaller and sharper the image. A common PPI value for the web is 72.

Aspect Ratio

- Aspect ratio is a fundamental concept in video editing and refers to the

proportional relationship between the width and height of a video frame.
- It determines the shape of the video and affects how it appears on different
screens.
- Widely divided as Landscape/Horizontal and Portrait/Vertical.
- TIKTOK - 9:16
- YouTube - 16:9
- Cinematic - 21:9
- Square - 1:1
- Old Tv. Pc - 4:3

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Formats (JPG, PNG, GIF, PSD, …)

Formats are the types of files that store digital images. Different formats have different

characteristics, such as compression, quality, transparency, and animation. Some of the

common formats are:

- JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) is a format that compresses images to

reduce their file size. JPG is suitable for photos and images with many colors and

details, but it may cause some loss of quality and artifacts.

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- PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is a format that preserves the quality and

transparency of images. PNG is suitable for graphics and images with solid colors and

sharp edges, but it may have a larger file size than JPG. Supports transparent

backgrounds.

- GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) is a format that supports animation and

transparency. GIF is suitable for simple animations and images with few colors, but it

may have a lower quality and resolution than JPG or PNG.

- PSD (Photoshop Document) is a format that stores images as layers, which can be

edited in photoshop.

- How Graphic Design works (The Process)

1. Brainstorming: brief or Ideation

2. Research

3. Draft Sketch (Optional)

4. Concept development

5. Design

6. Refine

7. Deliver

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- Graphic Design Softwares

Adobe PS

Adobe AIn

Adobe AIl

PixleLab | Picsart

- Setting Up Your Designing Workspace

How to download Adobe PS PC

Link : https://getintopc.com/?s=Adobe+photoshop

How to download Adobe AI PC

Link : https://getintopc.com/?s=adobe+illustrator

How to download Pixel Lab and Pics Art Mobile

Both for android and iphone.

Link :

- Photoshop Interface Overview

Show everything on the PC

Shortcuts

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- Before Designing

Have what you will design in mind.

Plan beforehand.

Have some sample designing style.

Make sure all the files are ready.

Make sure you have sufficient space on your device.

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 Module 2 : Design Theory and Principles

- Visual Elements

● Visual elements encompass various components that contribute to the overall

aesthetics of a design.

● Visual elements are the building blocks of any design. They determine how a

composition looks and feels. Understanding these elements allows designers to

create visually appealing and effective communication.

● These include line, shape, color, texture, and form.

1 Line and Shapes:Lines guide the viewer’s eye, create movement, and define

boundaries. They can convey emotions (e.g., straight lines for stability, curved lines for

fluidity).

- Shapes contribute to composition and visual balance. They can represent

objects, symbols, or concepts.

2 Color Theory (Color Wheel, Gradient and Composition)

- Color evokes emotions, communicates messages, influence perception, aid in

brand recognition and sets the mood. Proper color choices enhance readability

and impact.

- Understanding color relationships helps create harmonious designs.

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 - Color Wheel: The color wheel organizes colors based on their relationships. It

includes primary colors (red, blue, yellow), secondary colors (formed by mixing

primaries), and tertiary colors (a mix of primary and secondary colors).

- Gradient: Gradients transition smoothly from one color to another. They add

depth and dimension to designs.

- Composition: Color composition involves selecting harmonious color

combinations. Techniques like complementary, analogous, or triadic color

schemes enhance visual appeal.

3 Color Mode (RGB, ,CMYK, Gray Scale, Bitmap, Lab Color)

Designers work with different color modes for various purposes:

- RGB (Red, Green, Blue): Used for digital displays (screens). Combines these

three primary colors to create a wide spectrum. Used for digital screens.

- CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black): Used for print. These four colors are

combined to produce full-color images. Essential for print materials.

- Gray Scale: Consists of shades of gray, from black to white.

- Bitmap: Represents images using pixels (black and white dots).

- Lab Color: A color space that separates luminance (brightness) from color

information

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4 Typography (Typeface Categories, Fonts and Type Families)

- Typography is the art and technique of arranging type to make written language

legible, readable, and appealing when displayed. It involves selecting typefaces, point

sizes, line lengths, line spacing, letter spacing, and spaces between pairs of letters.

4.1 Typeface Categories: These are families of fonts. They have different styles of

letterforms.

- Each typeface has its own personality and conveys a distinct mood. Fonts fall

into categories like serif, sans-serif, script, and display. Each category has

distinct characteristics.

Serif Font :

Sans-Serif :

Script :

Display :

4.2 Fonts: Fonts play a crucial role in visual communication. Specific styles within

typefaces (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman). You can get fonts for free from Google Fonts,

Dafont, and 1001 Fonts.

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4.3 Type Families: A group of related fonts (e.g., regular, bold, italic).

5 Texture and Patterns

- Texture Refers to the surface quality of an object. It can be visual (like wood

grain) or tactile (felt by touch).

- Patterns are repeating designs. Patterns add interest and rhythm to visuals.

6 Strokes and Shadows

- Strokes are outlines or borders around shapes or text. Varying stroke thickness

impacts visual weight.

- Shadows create depth and simulate light sources. Drop shadows, inner

shadows, and cast shadows are common.

7 Forms are three-dimensional objects. They have volume and occupy space. Think of

cubes, spheres, or cylinders.

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- Design Principles

Let's delve into the essential design principles and explore how they contribute to

effective graphic design:

1. Contrast

- Contrast refers to the difference between elements in a design. It can involve

variations in color, size, texture, or shape.

- Contrast creates visual interest, guides the viewer's eye, and highlights important

information.

- Use high contrast for emphasis (e.g., dark text on a light background) and low

contrast for subtle elements.

2. Hierarchy

- Hierarchy establishes the order of importance within a design. It helps viewers

understand what to focus on first.

- Clear hierarchy ensures effective communication and prevents visual clutter.

- Use size, color, and placement to emphasize key elements (e.g., headings,

call-to-action buttons).

3. Space

- Space (both positive and negative) defines the layout and relationships between

elements.

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 - Proper spacing enhances readability, provides breathing room, and organizes

content.

- Balance positive space (content) with negative space (empty areas) to create

harmony.

4. Alignment

- Alignment refers to the arrangement of elements along a common axis (e.g., left,

center, or right).

- Consistent alignment creates a cohesive design and improves visual flow.

- Align text, images, and other elements to a grid or key lines.

5. Balance

- Balance ensures stability and equilibrium in a design. It can be symmetrical or

asymmetrical.

- Balanced compositions feel harmonious and visually pleasing.

- Distribute visual weight evenly (e.g., large elements balanced by smaller ones).

6. Proximity

- Proximity groups related elements together. It shows their relationship and reduces

cognitive load.

- Proper grouping improves readability and organization.

- Place related items close to each other (e.g., text and its associated image).

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7. Repetition

- Repetition involves using consistent visual elements (such as fonts, colors, or

shapes) throughout a design.

- Repetition reinforces branding, creates patterns, and establishes familiarity.

- Reuse design elements consistently (e.g., consistent button styles across a

website).

8. Simplicity

- Simplicity advocates for clarity and minimalism. It removes unnecessary complexity.

- Simple designs are easier to understand and remember.

- Eliminate clutter, focus on essential elements, and avoid overcomplicating.

9. Function

- Functionality ensures that design serves its intended purpose effectively.

- Aesthetics alone are insufficient; design must be practical and user-friendly.

- Prioritize usability, accessibility, and user needs.

10. Blending Mode

- Blending modes alter how layers interact in digital design software (e.g.,

Photoshop).

- Blending modes control transparency, shadows, highlights, and color effects.

- Experiment with blending modes to achieve desired visual effects (e.g., overlay,

multiply, screen).

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- Purpose of Designs

Print Design and Digital Design

1 Print Design

○ What: Print design encompasses visual materials that are intended for

physical printing. These include items like business cards, brochures,

posters, books, magazines, and packaging.

○ Characteristics:

■ Medium: Designs are created for physical surfaces (paper,

cardboard, etc.).

■ Color Modes: Pay attention to CMYK color mode for optimal

printing results.

■ Typography: Choose fonts suitable for print and consider

readability.

■ Resolution: Use high-resolution images (usually 300 DPI) for crisp

printing.

○ Purpose: Print design aims to communicate information effectively in

tangible form.

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2 Digital Design:

○ What: Digital design focuses on creating visuals for digital platforms and

screens. It encompasses anything you see and interact with on devices

like phones, tablets, and computers.

○ Characteristics:

■ Medium: Designs are exclusively for digital screens (websites,

apps, social media, etc.).

■ Color Modes: Use RGB color mode for screens.

■ Typography: Consider readability on screens, responsive fonts,

and web-safe fonts.

■ Resolution: Use screen resolution (usually 72 DPI) for digital

displays.

○ Purpose: Digital design aims to engage users, enhance user experience,

and convey information in an interactive way.

Types of Graphic Designs

1. Logo Design:

○ What: Logos are visual symbols that represent a brand or company. They

should be memorable, simple, and versatile.

○ Purpose: Logos create brand recognition and convey the essence of a

business.

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2. Business Cards:

○ What: Business cards contain essential contact information (name, title,

phone, email) and often feature a company logo.

○ Purpose: Business cards facilitate networking and leave a professional

impression.

3. Banners:

○ What: Banners are large-format designs used for advertising, events, or

online promotions.

○ Purpose: Banners grab attention and communicate a message effectively.

4. Brochures:

○ What: Brochures are folded informational documents used for marketing

or educational purposes.

○ Purpose: Brochures provide detailed information about products,

services, or events

5. Posters:

○ What: Posters are eye-catching visual displays used for advertising,

events, or announcements.

○ Purpose: Posters attract attention and convey a message succinctly.

6. Thumbnails:

○ What: Thumbnails are small, scaled-down versions of images or videos

used online.

○ Purpose: Thumbnails help users quickly identify content and encourage

clicks.

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7. Publications:

○ What: Publications include magazines, newspapers, and newsletters.

○ Purpose: Publications inform, entertain, and engage readers.

8. Infographics:

○ What: Infographics combine text and visuals to present complex

information in a visually appealing way.

○ Purpose: Infographics simplify data and- enhance understanding.

9. Packaging and Mockups:

○ What: Packaging design involves creating attractive product packaging.

Mockups simulate how a product will look in real life.

○ Purpose: Packaging influences purchasing decisions, and mockups help

visualize the final product.

10. Branding and Visual Identity:

○ What: Branding encompasses all design elements that define a brand’s

identity (logo, colors, fonts, etc.).

○ Purpose: Consistent branding builds trust and recognition.

11. Marketing and Advertising Designs:

○ What: These designs include digital ads, social media graphics,

billboards, and more.

○ Purpose: Marketing designs promote products, services, or events.

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 Module 3 : Introduction to Adobe PS

- Creating New Doc

- Workspaces (Essentials - Reset)

- Tools Overview

- Options Bar

- Ruler, Grids and Smart Guides

- Navigation and Zooming

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 Module 4 : Adobe PS Designing

- Layers

What are Layers

How Photoshop Layers Work (Visibility)

Layer styles and modes (Opacity, fill … )

- Multiple layering

Adding Layer

Duplicate Layer

Deleting Layer

Merging Layers

- Overlays and Blending Modes

How to Overlay Clips in PS

How to Use Blending Modes in PS

- Cropping and Resizing

How to Crop

How to Resize

How to Scale

How to Move

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- Adjustments

Adjustment Layers

Tone Adjustment With Levels

Color Adjustment

Hue Adjustments

- Masks

How to Mask in Photoshop

How to Remove things in PS

- Color Grading

How to color grade with Adjustment

How to color grade with Masked Layer

How to color grade with Camera Raw

- Filters

Blur - Rendering -

- Transforming and Warping

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 Module 5 : Practical Examples

Example 1: Logo Design

Logo 1:

Logo 2:

Example 2: Creative Ads

Burger Ads

Example 3: Case Study ( Branding )

CAMERA RAW

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 Module 6 : Saving and Sharing Projects

- Saving as a PSD Project

- Export Settings

How to Export in PS

How to Apply Export Settings in PS

- Uploading and Sharing

How to Upload Designs

How to Share Designs

Module 7 : Final Project and Certification

- Final Project

- Reviewing Final Projects

- Certifications

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