see things through your audience's eyes

Where are your eyes drawn? That simple question is the basis of an easy test you can perform on any visual communication you create—a graph or slide, for example—to assess whether you’ve designed it effectively. Sketch or create the thing, then close your eyes and look away and look back to it. Take note of where your eyes land first (and where they go next). This is likely where your audience’s eyes will look first (and next) as well. Are you drawn clearly to the most important element? If not, you likely need to iterate.

Alex expands upon and demonstrates in our Where are your eyes drawn? video series.

After you binge-watch Alex’s impressive makeovers, check out the full SWD YouTube channel for many more hours of video learning!