A lead UX/UI designer at a renowned agency put together this cheat sheet that’s been a hit with interns and on reddit. Whether you’re just starting or looking to brush up your skills, this guide is jam-packed with insights!
The Three Pillars of UX/UI Mastery Let’s dive into the three core areas: theory, tools/practice, and taste. Mastering these will significantly speed up your learning curve.
Theory: Building a Solid Foundation
- Understanding the Evolution of Web Design: Trace the journey of web design from its early days to the present.
- The Role of Visual Hierarchy: Learn to effectively guide user attention.
- Typography in Web and Graphic Design: Explore how typography shapes user experience.
- Mastering Grids and Composition: Get a grip on layout techniques for cohesive designs.
- Systems in Design – 8-point/4-point/5-point: Understand the significance of systematic approaches in design.
- Deciphering UX Patterns: Essential reads include Laws of UX and Nielsen Norman Group.
- Design Philosophies of Legends: Study the works of Dieter Rams and Donald Norman.
- Mobile Design Essentials: Grasp the nuances of iOS and Android, and mobile-first design.
- The Art of Design Libraries and UI Kits: Why they’re crucial.
- Successful Collaboration with Dev Teams: Ensure a smooth handoff.
- Branding and UX: How branding influences user experience.
- UX Research Techniques: From personas to A/B testing.
- The Significance of Job Stories: Crafting compelling narratives for products.
- Understanding Different Website Types: E-commerce, B2B, landing pages, and more.
- The Impact of UX Writing: The role of text and labels in user experience.
- Web2 vs. Web3 Patterns: Recognize the evolving design trends.
- AI in UX/UI Design: Explore the influence of AI tools like ChatGPT and Mid-Journey.
Optional Deep Dive:
- Agile Framework and the Designer’s Role: Understand product work in agile environments.
Tools/Practice: Sharpening Your Skills
- Master Key Tools: Figma, Webflow, Adobe, and Cinema 4D.
- Daily Challenges: Make practice a habit.
- Solving Real-world Problems: Create job stories for everyday issues.
- Exploration and Creativity: Don’t be afraid to experiment.
- Learning Resources: Check out courses on Domestika.org.
- Mentorship and Feedback: Seek guidance and critique.
Taste: Developing an Eye for Design
- Daily Inspiration Dose: Regularly review top-tier work online.
- Must-Visit Sites for Inspiration: Behance, Awwwards, Readymag, and more.
Parting Wisdom Remember, the tools and practices mentioned are popular in our agency but may vary depending on your specific design focus. For those delving into visually striking concepts, 3D tools are invaluable. However, detailed modeling isn’t always necessary; you can often find pre-made 3D models online. Keep your focus on simpler elements like basic shapes and scene lighting. Cinema 4D is our go-to, but feel free to explore other user-friendly options.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Design Journey with Confidence There you have it, folks – a comprehensive guide to kickstart your journey in UX/UI design. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Dive in, explore, and most importantly, enjoy the process of becoming a remarkable designer. Good luck!