1. How to use this path
Graphic Design · 52 pages source format
Graphic design is learned by doing — not by collecting inspiration boards. This path moves from seeing hierarchy to shipping a campaign and portfolio case. Block 1–1.5 hours most days. Each week has a deliverable; checkpoints gate the next phase.
What you'll learn
- Weekly rhythm and deliverables
- Tools you need (mostly free)
- What “job-ready” graphic design means at junior level
Study pace
Plan 6–8 weeks at 8–10 hrs/week. Week 1–2: eyes and type. Week 3–4: color and grid. Week 5–6: brand. Week 7–8: campaign + portfolio.
- Recommended: 8 weeks at ~10 hrs/week
- Accelerated: 5–6 weeks at 2 hrs/day
- Slow track: 10–12 weeks — consistency beats speed
Do this now
Block calendar slots for the next 7 days. Pick one fictional client (café, festival, SaaS) you will design for all 8 weeks.
Tools setup
Figma (free tier) covers 90% of this path. Optional: Affinity Designer or Illustrator for print export. You do not need Adobe Creative Cloud to start.
Do this now
Create a Figma file named “Graphic Design Journey”. Add a cover page with your fictional client name and 8-week goal.
Rules of the road
One message per piece. Critique with hierarchy language, not “I don’t like it.” Save every iteration — portfolio case studies need process, not just finals.
Do this now
Create a folder: Process/. You will screenshot every draft there.
Pro tip. If a layout feels busy, remove one element before adding anything new.