Proximity

In this post we continue looking at the principles represented in the acronym C. R. A. P. from Robin Williams’ book the Non-Designers Design Book. In previous posts we looked at Contrast, Repetition and Alignment. In this post, we look at the next letter in the acronym, Proximity (nearness). According to Williams, the key principle of alignment states that you “group related items together.” When items that are related to each other are moved close together, the proximity helps make a visual connection and adds cohesion to your visuals.

Proximity helps us to see the relationships. It makes it easier for the audience to see the relationships and the empty spaces gives a place to rest their eyes. Look at the two slides below:





























With the slide on the top, it is not clear whether my name belongs with the title or with the school. On the bottom, it is clear that I am showing the relationship with my name and the school.

So, I hope you will look at your slides and consider how to show relationships using proximity.