Design Theory Introduction 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which term describes the visual path a viewer's eye follows through a design?
- Visual hierarchy (Correct answer)
- Color saturation
- Kerning
- Bleed
Correct answer: Visual hierarchy
Visual hierarchy arranges elements by importance to guide the viewer's eye through a composition.
Question 2: A designer places a bright red button on a page of muted gray elements. Which principle is being applied?
- Contrast (Correct answer)
- Repetition
- Alignment
- Proximity
Correct answer: Contrast
Contrast uses differences in color, size, or shape to make an element stand out.
Question 3: In design theory, negative space refers to what?
- The empty area around and between elements (Correct answer)
- Colors with low brightness values
- Elements placed off the canvas
- A layout that tests poorly with users
Correct answer: The empty area around and between elements
Negative space (white space) is the unmarked area around elements that gives a composition room to breathe.
Question 4: Which pair are considered complementary colors on the traditional color wheel?
- Blue and orange (Correct answer)
- Red and yellow
- Green and blue
- Purple and red
Correct answer: Blue and orange
Complementary colors sit directly opposite each other on the color wheel, such as blue and orange.
Question 5: The Gestalt principle of proximity states that viewers perceive objects as related when they are what?
- Placed close together (Correct answer)
- Colored identically
- Rotated the same way
- Outlined with borders
Correct answer: Placed close together
Proximity groups elements that are near each other into perceived units.
Question 6: Which of the following is an element of design rather than a principle of design?
- Line (Correct answer)
- Balance
- Emphasis
- Unity
Correct answer: Line
Line, shape, color, texture, and space are elements; balance, emphasis, and unity are principles that organize those elements.
Question 7: A symmetrical layout with equal visual weight on both sides demonstrates which type of balance?
- Formal balance (Correct answer)
- Radial balance
- Asymmetrical balance
- Crystallographic balance
Correct answer: Formal balance
Formal (symmetrical) balance mirrors visual weight evenly across a central axis.
Design Theory Introduction 2
Which term describes the visual path a viewer's eye follows through a design?