Principles of Design: Repetition

Use of Repetition

CONSISTENCY Repetition is essential for creating consistency in a design. The more extensive the design (like an online course), the more important it is to incorporate elements that tie the various parts together into a whole. The repetition of "designing" in the titles of the three main categories link them with the website title. The three colors bordering the images are repeated throughout each respective category and they are also used in the DOL Moodle course.
PATTERN Repetition of lines, shapes, and colors can form patterns. Sometimes negative (white) space is part of the pattern. Patterns add visual interest, but it is hard to read text over top of them. It is not always a good idea to se them as background for that reason. But organizational patterns can be helpful as familiarity helps readers easily find information.
RHYTHM Repetition of lines, shapes, and colors can also be used to create rhythm in the design. Patterns typically have some regularity to their repetition, even if it is complex. But rhythm can have more variation, suggesting movement. That sense of motion helps direct the eye through a design.
Emphasis.
EMPHASIS The principle of repetition can be used to emphasize the most important parts of the design. Repeated words and phrases help readers remember key information. However, repetition without any contrast can be boring. Repetition and contrast working together, on the other hand, is an effective way to emphasize the focal point of a design. The eye is instantly drawn to the place where the pattern breaks.