Whitespace
Whitespace is a fundamental design concept that refers to the empty space between elements in a website or design layout. It's like the breathing room in a design that makes content easier to read and understand. Also known as 'negative space,' it's not always white - it can be any empty area between text, images, or other design elements. Designers use whitespace to create clean, professional layouts that guide users through content naturally. Think of it like the margins in a book or the space between paragraphs that makes reading comfortable.
Examples in Resumes
Redesigned company website using strategic whitespace placement to improve readability
Applied negative space principles to create clean, modern landing pages
Improved user engagement by 40% through effective whitespace management in mobile layouts
Typical job title: "UI/UX Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find UI/UX Designers
Design Communities
Professional Networks
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you decide on whitespace proportions for different devices and screen sizes?
Expected Answer: A senior designer should discuss responsive design principles, how whitespace needs to adapt for mobile vs desktop, and how they use design systems to maintain consistent spacing across platforms.
Q: Can you describe a project where you had to defend your whitespace choices to stakeholders?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to explain design decisions to non-designers, showing how whitespace improves user experience, readability, and ultimately business goals.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you use whitespace to create visual hierarchy?
Expected Answer: Should explain how different amounts of space can emphasize important elements and guide users through content in a natural way.
Q: What's your approach to balancing whitespace with content density?
Expected Answer: Should discuss how they find the right balance between giving elements breathing room while still maintaining an efficient use of space.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is whitespace and why is it important in design?
Expected Answer: Should explain that whitespace is the empty space between elements that helps make designs more readable and professional-looking.
Q: How do you use whitespace in typography?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic concepts like line spacing, paragraph margins, and letter spacing to make text more readable.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of spacing principles
- Typography spacing fundamentals
- Simple layout creation
- Following existing design systems
Mid (2-5 years)
- Creating responsive layouts
- Applying whitespace strategically
- Building consistent spacing systems
- Balancing content density
Senior (5+ years)
- Creating design systems
- Leading design strategy
- Optimizing user experience through spacing
- Training junior designers
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic design principles
- Cluttered portfolio examples
- Unable to explain spacing decisions
- No knowledge of responsive design
- Poor typography skills
Related Terms
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