Visual Design for the Modern Web

Book excerpt: Just as great artists must understand their tools, great Web designers must understand the technology behind their art. In Visual Design for the Web, author Penny McIntire shows novice Web designers how to use their tools--including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript--in conjunction with the principles of aesthetics and usability to become masters of their craft. Chapters begin with explanations of the terminology and techniques of web structures, then demonstrate how to apply the rules of design to create beautiful sites. The book: Illustrates how fundamental principles of design apply to the web Includes charts, diagrams, and graphics to enhance learning and retention Covers site analysis, navigation, layout, color, graphics, typography and forms Demonstrates multiple techniques for getting just the right look and feel for your web sites Focuses on the characteristics that make sites usable, engaging, and memorable