First impressions are important not only for people but this saying can be applied to your research paper. When designing your document, you need to pay attention to five important principles in regards to creating your document; they are balance, emphasis, placement, repetition and consistency.
Balance is deciding whether you will do a conservative symmetrical alignment of text and illustration. if you decide to go with a more asymmetrical design it will create a feeling of movement. Another design principle is emphasis. This focuses on headings, subheadings, color or the type of font you will use. Placement is organizing where you may put a photograph or other related illustrations. Repetition includes page numbering, logos, web navigation menus and other ways to navigate through your document. Consistency is important. It gives the reader a feeling that you are knowledgeable, credible and take pride in your product. Everything in your paper should match and take all elements into consideration.
When designing your document step outside of yourself and view it as if you are the reader. Is it easy to locate information and ideas? Headings and subheadings should be consistent and easy to identify. Is it easy on your eyes to navigate and read? The font should be simple and the line spacing should be the same. Are the illustrations clear and helpful? You can insert photographs, digital images, charts and graphs. You can add borders and shaded boxes to add additional information. The possibilities are endless with technology and the programs we have available.
When inserting illustrations be sure that they have a function and a purpose for your topic. You can add captions to them or put them at a relevant part of your paper.
Balance is deciding whether you will do a conservative symmetrical alignment of text and illustration. if you decide to go with a more asymmetrical design it will create a feeling of movement. Another design principle is emphasis. This focuses on headings, subheadings, color or the type of font you will use. Placement is organizing where you may put a photograph or other related illustrations. Repetition includes page numbering, logos, web navigation menus and other ways to navigate through your document. Consistency is important. It gives the reader a feeling that you are knowledgeable, credible and take pride in your product. Everything in your paper should match and take all elements into consideration.
When designing your document step outside of yourself and view it as if you are the reader. Is it easy to locate information and ideas? Headings and subheadings should be consistent and easy to identify. Is it easy on your eyes to navigate and read? The font should be simple and the line spacing should be the same. Are the illustrations clear and helpful? You can insert photographs, digital images, charts and graphs. You can add borders and shaded boxes to add additional information. The possibilities are endless with technology and the programs we have available.
When inserting illustrations be sure that they have a function and a purpose for your topic. You can add captions to them or put them at a relevant part of your paper.
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