Graphic Design & Visual Communication Flashcards

Which color model is best suited for designs intended for print production?

Answer: CMYK

CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) is the standard color model for print because it matches the ink colors used by printing presses.

What is the term for the empty space around or between design elements that helps improve readability?

Answer: White space

White space (also called negative space) is intentional empty area that reduces clutter and guides the viewer's eye through the composition.

A designer wants to create a logo that scales from a business card to a billboard without losing quality. Which file format is most appropriate?

Answer: SVG

SVG is a vector format that uses mathematical paths, so it scales infinitely without any loss of quality.

Which principle of design refers to the visual weight and distribution of elements so no single part dominates inappropriately?

Answer: Balance

Balance distributes visual weight across the composition, which can be symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial.

In typography, what does 'leading' control?

Answer: Space between lines of text

Leading is the vertical spacing between lines of type, originating from the lead strips typesetters placed between rows of metal type.

Which design principle uses repetition of visual elements to create a sense of organized movement through a layout?

Answer: Rhythm

Rhythm in design is achieved by repeating visual elements at regular or varied intervals, guiding the viewer's eye through the composition.

A client requests a photo with a transparent background for use on a colored website. Which format should the designer deliver?

Answer: PNG

PNG supports an alpha channel for transparency, making it ideal for web graphics that need a transparent background.