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Graphic Design Quiz: Introduction to the Basics

15 graphic design quiz questions. Quick practice with instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Abburi ChinnikrishnaUpdated Aug 23, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
Questions: 15
Study OutcomesAdditional Reading
3D voxel art representing Introduction to Graphic Design course

This graphic design quiz helps you check the basics-visual communication, typography, layout, and design history. Answer 15 short questions and see your score instantly. For more practice, build core art skills with our elements of art quiz and explore color basics in a color theory quiz.

Which design principle ensures related items are visually grouped to communicate they belong together?
Scale
Proximity - placing related elements close together clarifies their relationship and improves scanability
Texture
Contrast
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In print design, what does bleed refer to?
Ink spreading on low-quality paper
Artwork extending beyond the trim edge to avoid white slivers after cutting - typically 1/8 in or 3 mm
The space inside margins
The gap between columns
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Which color mode is standard for on-screen graphics?
Pantone
RGB - additive color model for screens and digital displays
CMYK
Duotone
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What is kerning in typography?
Adjusting space between specific pairs of characters - fine-tuning letter fit
Uniform spacing across a range of characters
The vertical height of lowercase letters
Spacing between lines of text
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Which file format is best for scalable logos?
SVG - vector format that scales without loss of quality
TIFF
PNG
JPEG
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Which color harmony uses colors opposite each other on the color wheel?
Triadic
Monochromatic
Analogous
Complementary - high contrast pair from opposing positions
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In a brand identity, which logo type uses stylized text only?
Wordmark - logotype built from the brand name in type
Pictorial mark
Abstract mark
Emblem
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What is leading in typography?
Space between paragraphs
Space between letters globally
Margin width
Line spacing from baseline to baseline - controls readability
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Which file type preserves transparency and is best for web raster graphics?
JPEG
PNG - supports alpha transparency and lossless compression
DOCX
BMP
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Which principle focuses on repeating visual elements to create cohesion?
Contrast
Repetition - consistent use of shapes, colors, or styles builds unity
Movement
Perspective
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Which principle guides the reader's eye through intentional movement across a layout?
Flow/Movement - using direction, position, and rhythm to lead attention
Hierarchy only
Opacity
Feathering
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What is overprint used for in print production?
To lighten colors
To remove bleed
To reduce resolution
To intentionally print one ink on top of another - avoids knockouts and can create rich blacks
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Which format is best for line art requiring crisp edges and small file sizes on the web?
TIFF
JPEG high compression
GIF because 256 colors are enough
SVG - resolution independent and ideal for sharp lines and icons
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What is a baseline grid used for?
Creating drop shadows
Aligning images to columns
Aligning text baselines across columns and pages - creates consistent rhythm
Setting page size
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Which printing color system uses pre-mixed inks for consistent spot colors?
Pantone Matching System - standardized spot inks for predictable color
LAB only
RGB
CMYK only
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What is trapping in print production?
Adding spot varnish
Converting RGB to CMYK
Increasing DPI
Expanding one color slightly to overlap another - compensates for misregistration
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Which blending mode generally darkens by multiplying base and blend colors?
Overlay
Lighten
Multiply - simulates stacking inks, resulting in darker tones
Screen
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Which color model is device-independent and describes color by human perception axes?
CMYK
HSV
CIELAB (Lab) - L* lightness with a* and b* opponent channels
RGB
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What is the primary purpose of a creative brief in design projects?
Select paper stock
Define goals, audience, deliverables, scope, and constraints - aligns stakeholders before design begins
Set print resolution
Choose color palettes only
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Which technique isolates adjustments to tonal ranges without altering pixel data directly?
Direct curve edits on the background layer
Using the eraser tool
Adjustment layers with masks - targeted, non-destructive control
Flattening before editing
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand principles of visual perception and their impact on design.
  2. Analyze visual communication theory to critique and create effective designs.
  3. Apply historical design precedents to contemporary graphic challenges.
  4. Demonstrate technical proficiency in typography, layout, and image making.

Introduction To Graphic Design Additional Reading

Here are some engaging academic resources to enhance your understanding of graphic design principles:

  1. This course by the California Institute of the Arts covers essential topics like color theory, typography, and composition, providing a solid foundation for aspiring designers.
  2. Offered by Edraak, this course delves into design principles, visual perception, and communication theory, aligning well with your course objectives.
  3. This resource from Appalachian State University provides an overview of graphic design concepts, including design principles, color theory, and typography, complementing your course content.
  4. This SlideShare presentation discusses various types of graphic design, such as visual identity, marketing, and user interface design, offering practical insights into the field.
  5. This article breaks down fundamental design principles like contrast, emphasis, and composition, providing clear explanations and examples to enhance your understanding.
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