How can graphic design software boost your productivity?

1 Choose the right tool

Not all graphic design software is created equal. Depending on your project, you might need different features, functions, and formats. For example, if you're designing a logo, you might want a vector-based software like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape. If you're editing photos, you might prefer a raster-based software like Photoshop or GIMP. And if you're creating a layout, you might opt for a page design software like InDesign or Scribus. Choosing the right tool for the job can save you time, hassle, and frustration.

2 Use templates and presets

One of the benefits of graphic design software is that you don't have to start from scratch every time. You can use templates and presets to speed up your workflow and ensure consistency. Templates are pre-made designs that you can customize with your own content, colors, and fonts. Presets are pre-defined settings that you can apply to your images, text, or shapes. For example, you can use a template to create a flyer, a brochure, or a business card. You can use a preset to adjust the brightness, contrast, or saturation of your photos. Using templates and presets can help you save time, avoid mistakes, and maintain your brand identity.

3 Learn the shortcuts

Another way to boost your productivity with graphic design software is to learn the shortcuts. Shortcuts are keyboard commands that let you perform actions quickly and easily. For example, you can use Ctrl+C to copy, Ctrl+V to paste, or Ctrl+Z to undo. You can also use shortcuts to access tools, menus, and panels. For example, you can use P to select the pen tool, F to toggle the screen mode, or L to open the layers panel. Learning the shortcuts can help you work faster, smoother, and more accurately.

4 Automate the tasks

Graphic design software can also help you automate the tasks that are repetitive, tedious, or time-consuming. You can use features like actions, scripts, or macros to record and execute a series of commands with a single click. For example, you can use an action to resize, crop, and save multiple images in a folder. You can use a script to add a watermark, a border, or a logo to your designs. You can use a macro to apply a style, a filter, or a transformation to your elements. Automating the tasks can help you save time, energy, and effort.

5 Collaborate and share

Finally, graphic design software can help you collaborate and share your work with others. You can use features like cloud storage, online editing, or feedback tools to access, modify, or comment on your files from anywhere. For example, you can use Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive to store and sync your files online. You can use Canva, Figma, or Sketch to edit your designs in your browser. You can use Behance, Dribbble, or Instagram to showcase your portfolio and get feedback. Collaborating and sharing can help you improve your skills, get inspired, and grow your network.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?