The current market trend shows that most graphic design students and enthusiasts are hoping for a freelance career until they build enough rep to land a job at a well-standing design team. Nevertheless, whichever future you have in mind for yourself, here are 10 basic steps you should take to become a full-stack graphic designer.

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Literature

It’s imperative to start by going through some texts written by acclaimed authors, people who represent undisputed authority in their field. This way, you’ll lay grounds for all other steps that need to be taken.

Keep in mind that you should also learn as much as you can about the history of the art because graphic design relies heavily on classic art concepts as well as modern and postmodern era trends.

Software Acquisition

There are so many software options that you can use as a graphic designer, it’s almost impossible to master all of them in a single lifetime. Therefore, it’s best to start with the most popular one, simply because you’re more likely to find tips and help if you’re looking for a widely accepted software assistance. 

According to its website, Adobe Photoshop is used by more than 90 percent of professionals, so it’s a good place to start.

Obtaining Hardware

A potent software is nothing without hardware to match its potential. As a graphic designer, you need a machine that can feed high-quality graphic requirements and offer enough power for demanding rendering processes. A large, widescreen monitor is also advised, as well as a drawing pad. Equipment can be costly, that’s why many students look for additional sources of funds. If writing is not your thing, find some alternative source of income to sustain your endeavor.

Set up Your Temple

You need a quiet place where nobody can interrupt your work. Set up your workshop and make it work for you by organizing it appropriately. You should keep all of your materials here and make sure you have everything you need so you don’t have to go out all the time. Consider this place your Jedi Temple, with you at the center of it all.

Set up a Schedule

Becoming a professional takes time and dedication, so make sure you control every aspect of your course. Set up a daily schedule that should include at least 4 hours of practice and a couple of hours dedicated to reading. Make sure your other obligations fit in, so plan strategically.

Find A Mentor

No matter how talented you are or how compelled you might be to graphic design, it’s difficult to stay on the right path without a mentor. Numerous professionals offer online courses on Udemy and many other platforms from whom you can learn. Most of them you can contact and seek help if you feel the need.

Practice

Start by copying existing work so you could master the basic techniques. It could be anything from your favorite football team logo to a rock band album cover. Recreating existing designs will help you improve your skill. Also, you can compare your work with the original to track your progress.

Portfolio

Start creating your work. You should look within yourself and find a niche that best fits your skill and sensibility. Cherry-pick your best work to include in your portfolio, remember, the more work you have the more you have to pick from.

Advertise Your Craft

nstagram is the most popular social media platform when it comes to graphic design content. Create a public Instagram account and share your work with the online community. Don’t forget to ask for feedback, it will help you get even better.

Networking

The last step is becoming an active part of the graphic design community. Attend meetups and workshops to communicate with likeminded people and increase your chance of exposure. Sharing ideas and experience is a crucial part of your growth as a professional.

Conclusion

These ten steps are easy to plan and go through, however, don’t think you will achieve greatness in a short time. Brace yourself for a long journey and a whole lot of setbacks and disappointments, as well as magical moments of inspiration and success. At all times, keep your mind focus on your goal and never give up, whatever challenge you might face.