Alright Advanced Design students, it’s time to put our design skills to the test in a new way! We look at SO much good design that when it comes time to talk about it, we freeze! Today we will expand on our theme- Looking at Design- and learn how to Critique better!

These do’s and don’ts can be applied to everything from your zoom calls to your instagram comments. By the end of this you will be able to give and receive feedback that will elevate your design skills to the max! Let’s get to it!

To start any critique by allowing the designer to introduce their work, this could simply mean reading the entire Instagram post. Allow them to explain challenges or proud moments in their design.

👍✓ DO always be respectful. Remember that everyone works hard!

🙅‍♀️✗ DON’T take offense or take it personal, instead think of solutions

👍✓ DO Listen and be patient

🙅‍♀️✗ DON’T talk over one another or argue

👍✓ DO State the problem in the design. Be specific and detailed (this is where e + p come in)

🙅‍♀️✗ DON’T use vague words like cute, nice, i like it, ugly

👍✓ DO Be ready with a solution or an idea

🙅‍♀️✗ DON’T use name- listen to the difference Johnny isn’t seeing the white space here vs. this white space needs further investigation in its proportion

👍✓ DO allow positive AND negative feedback

🙅‍♀️✗ DON’T Just give positive OR negative

👍✓ DO Ask the designer questions! Did you try….

🙅‍♀️✗ DON’T Assume the designer didn’t try your solution

👍✓ DO Think of the order of importance. Address the largest concerns first.

🙅‍♀️✗ DON’T Think your suggestion is the most important or take offense when it wasn’t used

After a critique you don’t just have a to-do list. Look at each problem and experiment with different ways to solve it! On one hand, don’t settle and keep pushing to be better. On the other hand, remember finished is better than perfect. Find a balance and be kind to yourself!

You can put these new skills to the test right away! When you get back to instagramin’ jump in on #LookatDesign Challenge and leave some thoughtful comments for your fellow students!