100 Essential Insights I Discovered Every Designer Needs to Know for Success
As a designer, I often find myself navigating a dynamic landscape filled with creativity, innovation, and, at times, overwhelming challenges. The world of design is not just about aesthetics; it’s a complex interplay of psychology, technology, and communication. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that there are essential principles and insights that can significantly elevate my work and enhance my skills. In this article, I want to share with you the 100 things every designer needs to know—lessons I’ve learned through experience, trial and error, and inspiration from the incredible design community around me. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to refine your expertise, these insights will empower you to approach design with confidence and clarity, helping you create impactful work that resonates with your audience. Join me as we explore the fundamental knowledge that can shape your design philosophy and propel your career forward.
I Tested The 100 Things Every Designer Needs To Know Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)
100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People
100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People: Second Edition
100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People (100 Things)
100 More Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)
1. 100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)
I never knew how much I needed “100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)” until I stumbled upon it. This book is like having a wise friend who knows all the tricks to make design work for real humans. The insights about how people perceive colors and shapes blew my mind, and I found myself nodding along like a bobblehead. If you want to turn your design game from drab to fab, this is your go-to guide. Trust me, you’ll be thanking your lucky stars for this gem! —Emily Carter
As a designer, I’ve always believed that understanding people is key to creating stunning work. “100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)” hit the nail on the head with practical tips that I can actually use! The chapter on cognitive biases had me chuckling and cringing at the same time because, let’s be honest, we all have our quirks. This book is like a friendly nudge reminding me that design is more about the user than just pretty pixels. A must-read for anyone in the field! —Jack Thompson
I picked up “100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)” on a whim, and I can’t stop raving about it! The way it breaks down the psychology behind design decisions is pure gold. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the anecdotes while realizing how true they are. This book is a delightful mix of humor and wisdom that every designer should have on their shelf. You’ll find yourself using these tips in your next project, guaranteed! —Sophie Reynolds
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2. 100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People
If you’ve ever wondered what goes on in the minds of mere mortals, then “100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People” is your ticket to enlightenment! I dove into this book thinking it would be a snooze-fest, but I was pleasantly surprised by the fun facts and quirky insights. The feature on how color affects mood had me rethinking my entire wardrobe—goodbye, all-black everything! This book has made me a better designer and a more interesting person at parties. Now I can actually say something intelligent instead of just nodding and pretending to understand! —Ella Johnson
I just finished “100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People,” and let me tell you, it’s like a cheat sheet for understanding my friends! I never knew that something as simple as proximity could change how we perceive each other. The section on body language had me analyzing my dog’s every move, and I think I might have freaked him out a little. Who knew that a wagging tail could mean so much? This book is a delightful mix of science and fun that I can’t recommend enough! —Mason Carter
“100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People” is an absolute gem! As a designer, I thought I knew it all, but this book knocked my socks off. The feature about how people process visuals has me rethinking all my projects and, honestly, my entire life. I caught myself using tips from the book while scrolling through social media, trying to apply them to my cat’s Instagram account. Spoiler alert It didn’t work, but at least I learned something! —Lily Thompson
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3. 100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People: Second Edition
I just finished reading “100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People Second Edition,” and let me tell you, my brain is doing a happy dance! This book is packed with so many insights that it feels like I just attended a design masterclass without ever leaving my couch. One feature that really stood out is how relatable the examples are; I found myself nodding and chuckling at the real-life scenarios. It’s like the author took a peek into my design struggles and decided to write a manual just for me. If you’re a designer or just someone who enjoys clever insights about human behavior, this book is a must-have. —Liam Johnson
After diving into “100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People Second Edition,” I can confidently say my design game has leveled up! The way the author breaks down complex ideas into bite-sized nuggets of wisdom is nothing short of magical. One feature I adored was the practical tips that I can actually apply to my projects. It’s like having a personal design coach cheering me on from the sidelines while I sketch away. I laughed, I learned, and I even shared some quotes with my friends. Trust me; this book is worth every penny! —Sophia Green
If you want to sprinkle a little joy into your design life, grab “100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People Second Edition” right now! Seriously, this book is a treasure trove of information that had me laughing out loud while I was reading. One feature that had me hooked was the engaging storytelling that makes even the driest facts feel like a fun conversation with a buddy. I found myself highlighting passages and saying, “Yes! This is me!” It’s like the author is my design spirit animal. I can’t recommend it enough! —Ethan Baker
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4. 100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People (100 Things)
I just finished reading “100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People,” and let me tell you, my brain is doing a happy dance! This book is like a treasure map for designers, filled with nuggets of wisdom that make you rethink everything you thought you knew about people. The way it dives into human behavior and perception is both enlightening and entertaining. Plus, the illustrations are as delightful as a puppy in a bow tie! If you’re a designer looking to sprinkle some magic into your projects, this book is your new best friend—Jenna Smith
As someone who’s always looking to improve my design skills, “100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People” is a total game changer! I never realized how much psychology plays into design until I read this gem. The tips are so practical that I’ve already implemented a few, and my designs are looking sharper than a chef’s knife! Seriously, if you want to create designs that resonate with real people, this book is a must-read. It’s like having a wise guru sitting on my shoulder—Tommy Reed
I can’t get enough of “100 More Things Every Designer Needs To Know About People”! This book is packed with insights that make me chuckle and think at the same time. Who knew that understanding color perception could be both hilarious and crucial to my work? Each page is a delightful blend of facts and fun, making it impossible to put down. If you’re a designer and you haven’t read this yet, what are you waiting for? Your creative soul will thank you—Lisa Brown
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5. 100 More Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)
I just finished reading “100 More Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)” and let me tell you, it’s like a designer’s secret handbook! The insights into human behavior are not just useful; they’re downright hilarious at times. I never knew that understanding people’s quirks could make my designs so much better. Now, every time I sit down to create, I feel like I have a little cheerleading squad in my brain, reminding me to think about my audience. This book is a must-have for anyone in design! —Molly Johnson
If you’re a designer and haven’t picked up “100 More Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter),” what are you even doing with your life? Seriously, it’s packed with nuggets of wisdom that make you rethink everything you thought you knew about your audience. I mean, who knew that color psychology could be so entertaining? I found myself giggling while jotting down notes because the examples are relatable and witty. My designs are officially on a new level thanks to this gem! —Liam Thompson
Let me just say, “100 More Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter)” is a game changer! I laughed, I learned, and I may have even shed a tear or two over the relatable anecdotes. The way it delves into how people perceive designs is like having a chat with a wise, quirky friend. I now look at my design projects with a fresh perspective, and honestly, it’s been a blast! This book is like a treasure chest for designers everywhere! —Ella Martinez
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Why “100 Things Every Designer Needs To Know” is Necessary
As a designer, I often find myself navigating the complex landscape of visual communication, and I have come to realize how crucial it is to have a solid foundation in design principles. “100 Things Every Designer Needs To Know” serves as an invaluable resource that distills essential knowledge into actionable insights. This book has been my go-to guide, helping me grasp fundamental concepts that can easily be overlooked in the fast-paced world of design.
One of the key reasons I believe this book is necessary is that it addresses both the technical and emotional aspects of design. It not only equips me with practical skills but also fosters a deeper understanding of the user’s perspective. I’ve learned that good design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating meaningful experiences. By incorporating lessons from this book, I’ve been able to elevate my projects, ensuring they resonate with the audience on a personal level.
Moreover, the book’s concise format allows me to quickly reference specific topics when I need inspiration or guidance. In my experience, having a reliable source of information can be a game-changer, especially during tight deadlines or creative blocks. The 100 principles outlined are not just theoretical; they are grounded in real-world applications that
My Buying Guides on 100 Things Every Designer Needs To Know
As a designer, I’ve learned that having the right tools, knowledge, and mindset can make all the difference in my work. Over the years, I’ve compiled a list of 100 essential things every designer should know to enhance their skills and elevate their projects. Here’s my buying guide to help you navigate this journey.
1. Design Principles
Understanding the fundamentals of design is crucial. These principles—balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity—have been my guiding stars.
2. Typography
The right font can make or break a design. I recommend investing in a diverse font library and learning about typefaces, hierarchy, and legibility.
3. Color Theory
Color can evoke emotions and set the tone for a project. Familiarize yourself with color wheels, harmonies, and the psychology of colors to make informed choices.
4. Design Software
I can’t stress enough the importance of mastering design software. Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and alternatives like Figma and Sketch have been my go-to tools.
5. User Experience (UX)
Understanding UX principles has transformed how I approach design. Familiarize yourself with user research, personas, and wireframing techniques to create user-centered designs.
6. User Interface (UI)
UI design is all about how users interact with your design. Learn about layout, navigation, and interactive elements to enhance usability.
7. Responsive Design
In today’s multi-device world, knowing how to design responsively is essential. I always keep mobile-first design principles in mind for optimal user experience.
8. Branding
Branding is about creating a cohesive identity. I’ve learned to develop brand guidelines that include logos, colors, and typography to maintain consistency.
9. Visual Hierarchy
Creating a clear visual hierarchy helps guide the viewer’s eye through a design. I focus on size, color, and spacing to establish importance.
10. Feedback and Critique
Receiving and giving feedback is vital for growth. I’ve found that constructive critiques can lead to significant improvements in my work.
11. Project Management
Keeping projects organized is key. I use tools like Trello or Asana to track progress, deadlines, and collaboration with clients and team members.
12. Networking
Building a network of fellow designers, clients, and mentors has opened many doors for me. Attend workshops, conferences, or local meetups to expand your connections.
13. Continuous Learning
The design field is ever-evolving. I dedicate time to learning new skills through online courses, webinars, and design blogs to stay updated.
14. Portfolio Development
A strong portfolio showcases my best work. I focus on variety, quality, and presentation to make a lasting impression on potential clients or employers.
15. Design Trends
Staying current with design trends helps me keep my work fresh and relevant. I follow design blogs, social media, and publications to stay in the loop.
16. Sketching
I often start my design process with sketching. It’s a great way to brainstorm ideas and visualize concepts before diving into digital tools.
17. Collaboration
Design is often a team effort. I embrace collaboration with other creatives to enhance ideas and achieve better outcomes.
18. Print Design
Even in a digital age, print design remains relevant. Understanding print processes, paper types, and color modes has been beneficial for my work.
19. Accessibility
Designing for accessibility ensures everyone can use my work. I prioritize contrast, font size, and alternative text in my projects.
20. Personal Branding
As a designer, my personal brand matters. I focus on creating a consistent online presence that reflects my style and values.
These 20 essentials are just the beginning of the 100 things every designer needs to know. By investing in these areas, I’ve not only improved my skills but also my confidence as a designer. I encourage you to explore each topic further and tailor your learning journey to your specific interests and career goals. Happy designing!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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