CARP Design Principles

Why Are These Principles Used?

There are four main web design principles: Contrast, Alignment, Repetition and Proximity. They are known as CRAP or CARP. These design principles are the core guidelines for designing a visually appealing and effective website. Not only do the principles help to beautify a website, they also aid in accessibility; many users may not realize it, but certain design choices can greatly impact how accessible their content is. For example, poor contrast or color choices may make it difficult or impossible for people with different vision abilities to see the material.

Additionally, the principles also assist in how well the content is conveyed and communicated. Primarily, proximity shows similarities and differences; viewers see visually close content to be part of a group, where the ideas share a common theme.

As you read more about the four guiding principles of web design, you'll begin to understand why they are important to follow, and how they can be implemented to create a stunning—and accessible—website.