A design is a message arranged for a particular audience and use. Before editing, write one sentence describing its purpose, audience and action. Gather approved text, logo and imagery first. Check that you have permission to use each asset.

1. Choose a design type that matches the output: social post, flyer or thumbnail.
2. Check the intended platform dimensions rather than assuming one size fits every placement.
3. Choose one headline, a supporting line and a clear next action.
4. Sketch a simple hierarchy: headline first, key visual second, details third.

Example: For a community workshop flyer, the date, venue and registration instruction must be readable before decorative details.

Exercise: Find three examples in the same category and note what attracts attention and what information is easy to find.

In Canva, start a design from a suitable template or blank design, then replace content with your own. Canva Free includes many templates and basic design/export options; premium templates, stock assets and some advanced features are paid or plan-dependent. Check the account label before using an asset in paid client work.

1. Use two or three type styles at most and make the headline clearly larger.
2. Align related items and leave breathing room around edges.
3. Use a limited color palette with enough contrast for readable text.
4. Preview at phone size. Fix crowded text, spelling and alignment.

A template is a starting point, not proof that a design is original or licensed for every use. Do not place a logo, photo or font into a client deliverable unless its terms allow that use.

Exercise: Make a square event post and a matching story layout; check that each keeps the same headline, colors and date while fitting its placement.

Choose export based on use: PNG is useful for crisp graphics and transparency where supported; JPG is suitable for many photo-based images; PDF Standard suits digital sharing; PDF Print offers print-oriented settings. Canva provides PDF Print options such as bleed and crop marks where applicable. Cropping an image in a design may not remove hidden portions from the exported PDF, so never rely on a crop to conceal sensitive information.

1. Proofread all text and check links before export.
2. Download the format and size requested by the recipient.
3. Use view/comment access for review unless the recipient should edit the original.
4. Keep a clean master and clearly label the final export.

Mini-project: Produce a three-piece portfolio sample for a fictional community event: square post, story graphic and print-ready flyer. Label it as a self-initiated sample and include an exported image/PDF plus a view-only review link.

Revision: Design for one audience and placement. Prioritize hierarchy, contrast and spacing. Verify licensing and export format. Review permissions before sharing.