# Document Design

> Apply strong visual and structural design principles to any document type (reports, decks, spreadsheets, PDFs) so the result is clear, professional, and easy to consume. Use when creating or reviewing the look-and-feel, layout, hierarchy, or overall quality of a document.

- Skill: `itsual/document-design` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add itsual/document-design`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/itsual/document-design/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: itsual (https://skillmd.com/u/itsual)
- Updated: 2026-09-21
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/itsual/document-design

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# Document Design

## Overview

Good document design makes content easier to understand and more credible. It is not decoration — it is communication.

## When to Use

- Creating any formal document or presentation
- Reviewing a draft for visual and structural quality
- Establishing templates or design standards

## Core Principles

- **Hierarchy** — Make the most important information the most visible
- **Consistency** — Same elements should look and behave the same way throughout
- **Alignment** — Elements should line up to a clear grid or edge
- **Whitespace** — Give content room to breathe; avoid crowding
- **Contrast** — Ensure text and key elements stand out from the background
- **Restraint** — Limit fonts, colors, and styles

## Practical Rules

- Maximum 2–3 typefaces per document
- Consistent margin and column structure
- Clear distinction between title, section headings, body, and captions
- Tables and figures should be referenced and labeled
- Avoid centered body text for long passages
- Prefer left-aligned text for readability in most business documents

## Verification

- [ ] A reader can grasp the structure in a few seconds
- [ ] Visual hierarchy matches information importance
- [ ] No accidental misalignment or uneven gaps
- [ ] Document looks intentional rather than default-template