By emphasizing the importance of ideation and decision making, Communicating through Graphic Design helps students express their ideas in design and understand the graphics-rich world around them. This comprehensive guide to graphic design techniques, skills, and tools -- both electronic and traditional -- addresses the unique demands and changing needs of today's graphic design programs. Engaging studio opportunities designed to mirror real-world design challenges foster hands-on learning, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. Interviews and profiles of professionals enrich the study of graphic design by providing insight to help students identify the essential skills needed for careers in graphic design. Design history features explore the social and cultural forces that have helped shape graphic design and its pioneers. Step-by-step guides lead students through fundamental techniques and processes. Galleries of student work offer inspiration for addressing the focus of each chapter. Contemporary and historic graphic design examples reflect diverse approaches and perspectives. Plus a Graphic Design Timeline detailing developments in design throughout history, Names to Know featuring key figures in the field of graphic design, and an in-depth Handbook that provides technical and career information. - Back cover.