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Graphic design software allows for more sophisticated effects than basic word processing programs. Different programs have different purposes, and factors such as computer compatibility and computing power should be considered before purchasing. Learning to use the software can be challenging, but there are resources available. Free software options are also available for basic tasks.
While basic documents can easily be prepared using a simple word processing program such as Microsoft® Word, more sophisticated effects require the use of specialized graphic design software. These software programs allow you to choose the color, font, size and style of text, and add images or clip art. Graphics software programs can be used to turn simple documents into artistic creations, even if you don’t normally consider yourself a very creative person.
However, not all graphic design software programs are intended to achieve the same goal. While Adobe® Photoshop® is used to edit digital images, for example, QuarkXPress® is used for desktop publishing tasks like writing a newsletter or designing a holiday card. There are also various illustration software and 3D graphics programs that can be used to design original computer-generated artwork. Before you spend your hard-earned cash, you’ll want to take some time to think about what kinds of projects you want to complete.
When buying graphic design software, there are several factors to consider. First, you’ll need to remember that not all programs will run on both PCs and Macs. In fact, Macs are generally considered the standard for professional-level graphic design. Also, graphic design programs can require a lot of computing power to run properly. If you have an older computer and plan to do regular graphic design work, you may need to upgrade to a newer desktop or laptop before investing heavily in software.
Learning to use graphic design software can be a challenging task. For example, Adobe® Photoshop® has many different filters, brushes, and special effects that can take years to truly master. Fortunately, there are numerous websites that offer online tutorials as well as books and DVDs to teach you how to use nearly every major computer program out there. If you prefer to learn directly from an experienced teacher, many community colleges also offer short workshops or continuing education courses that can give you a solid foundation for learning a particular software program.
If your design needs are minimal, keep in mind that there are many free graphic design software programs available. While these programs lack the sophisticated features of their paid counterparts, freeware alternatives can be an affordable choice for basic image editing or desktop publishing tasks. An example of a popular free graphic design software program is GIMP, a GNU image manipulation program that is often considered the closest free counterpart to Adobe® Photoshop®.
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