Graphic Design, also known as Visual Communication Design, uses visual elements to convey ideas and messages. By combining symbols, images, and text through various methods, graphic designers create compelling visual representations. They employ expertise in typography, visual arts, layout design, and digital software to execute creative projects effectively. Graphic design refers both to the design process and the final completed work.

Common applications of graphic design include logos (branding and trademarks), publications (magazines, newspapers, and books), advertisements, posters, billboards, website graphics, signage, and product packaging. For instance, packaging design may integrate logos, artistic elements, text arrangements, and cohesive design features such as imagery, shapes, sizes, and colors. Composition is a key characteristic of graphic design, especially when incorporating pre-existing materials or blending multiple design elements into a unified whole.

平面设计，也称为视觉传达设计，是以“视觉”作为沟通和表现的方式，透过多种方式来创造和结合符号、图片和文字，借此作出用来传达想法或讯息的视觉表现。平面设计师可能会利用字体排印、视觉艺术、版面、电脑软件等方面的专业技巧，来达成创作计划的目的。 平面设计通常可指制作（设计）时的过程，以及最后完成的作品。

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平面设计的常见用途包括标识（商标和品牌）、出版物（杂志，报纸和书籍）、平面广告，海报，广告牌，网站图形元素、标志和产品包装。例如，产品包装可能包括的商标或其他的艺术作品、编排文本和纯粹的设计元素，如风格统一的图像，形状，大小和颜色。组合是平面设计的最重要的特性之一，尤其是当产品使用预先存在的材料或多种元素融合。