C.R.A.P. Recap

Now that we have looked at each letter in the acronym C.R.A.P., let’s consider how to put all of the pieces together.

First, let’s review each letter. C stands for Contrast. And, the key principle of contrast states that “if two items are not exactly the same, then make them different. Really different.” This can be done by making a font or graphic larger or smaller, bold, or a (really) different color.

R stands for Repetition. And the key principle of repetition states that you “repeat some aspect of the design throughout the entire piece.” For example, you might contrast headings from the main body by making them larger and different font, but for repetition, each heading might use the same font and size.

A stands for Alignment. And, the key principle of alignment states that “nothing should be placed on the page arbitrarily. Every item should have a visual connection with something else on the page.” This can be done by making sure that the left, right, top or bottom border of each element lines up with the border of another element on your slide.

P stands for Proximity. And, the key principle of alignment states that you “group related items together.” By placing related items together, you can visually show their relationship. This will usually create some “blank” spaces on your slide where the eye can rest.

Let’s look at how we can combine this principles on a slide.


















See on this slide how there are no good design principles? First of all, the background is distracting. But also, there is no contrast, no alignment, and no proximity. The only reason there is any repetition is that the font and size are the same.

The lack of design principles makes this slide difficult for your audience to enjoy. But, even more importantly, it makes it difficult for them to understand. What is important in this slide? Where should your eyes look?

Now look at a slide where we apply the principles of C.R.A.P.:


















Much better, right? We applied contrast by using a simple background and be using a (really) different font, bold, and colors (but not too many). We applied repetition by using the same fonts and sizes for the general elements. We applied alignment by having each element share a right axis. And we applied proximity by having information about the topic at the top and information about the speaker at the bottom.

I hope that helps you see how everything works together. Now that you have learned how to apply design to your slides, I hope you realize that these principles also apply to any designs (including posters, documents, etc…).