80/20 Rule in

Graphic Design


The 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto principle, is a rule of thumb that suggests that 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes. In the context of graphic design, this principle can be applied in a number of ways.

One example of the 80/20 rule in graphic design is in the use of colors. It is often recommended that a designer use no more than three or four colors in a design, as using too many colors can make a design look cluttered and overwhelming. By sticking to a small number of colors, a designer can create a more cohesive and visually appealing design.

Another example of the 80/20 rule in graphic design is in the use of typography. A designer may choose to use a limited number of font styles in a design, such as one for headings and one for body text, in order to create a clean and organized look. By using a limited number of font styles, a designer can ensure that the design is easy to read and navigate.

Here are a few additional examples:

  1. 80% of the impact of a design is created by 20% of the design elements: This means that a small number of design elements, such as color, typography, and composition, are responsible for the majority of the impact of a design.
  2. 80% of the success of a design comes from 20% of the effort: This means that a small amount of careful planning and thought can go a long way in creating a successful design.
  3. 80% of a design’s effectiveness comes from 20% of its features: This means that a design should focus on a few key features and not try to include too many elements, as this can clutter the design and decrease its effectiveness.
  4. 80% of a design’s value comes from 20% of its content: This means that a design should focus on presenting the most important and valuable content, rather than trying to include too much information.

Overall, the 80/20 rule can be a useful guideline for graphic designers to follow in order to create effective and visually appealing designs. By focusing on the most important elements of a design and avoiding clutter and excess, designers can create designs that are both effective and aesthetically pleasing.