Field guide: how to be a graphic designer

This is the first and most complete handbook for the aspiring graphic designer. Fully illustrated with both contemporary and historical references, this book provides up and coming designers with all the practical insight they need to make it in the world of graphic design. From how to be more creative and how to stay on top creatively to the ins and outs of running a design business to the challenges of working in-house, this book will help anyone interested in graphic design decide on the right path for their career and give them the tools to make it into the career they want. The book provides inspiration from the top designers in the world on how they do what they do so well and also provides a complete reference of all the top design schools worldwide. --From the publisher.

Introduction -- pt. 1. Graphic design(ers) -- Omnipresent in the present : Graphic design today ; Peer pressure -- Versatility vs. specialization : The jack of all trades -- The specialist -- Disciplines : Advertising ; Print ; Illustration ; Identity ; Books/editorial ; Typography ; Packaging -- Web/interface/interactive ; Signage -- Trends or style : The good, the bad, and the ones that work ; Doing your own thing -- Every time someone says "Ethics" a designer loses his wings : Saving the world ; Saving yourself -- pt. 2. Education -- Good to know is difficult to learn : Why go to school? ; How to pick what is good for you ; Internship ; I can teach myself ; Never too late -- pt. 3. Welcome to wonderland -- Roll up your sleeves : The hunt ; Resume ; Portfolio ; The job interview ; Get ready for some cross-examining -- Modus operandi : Who is who? ; Practicing patience ; Teamwork ; One leader to rule them all? ; Freelancing -- pt. 4. Down the rabbit hole -- Self employment it is! : Beware of the pitfalls ; Setting up ; What is a design studio? -- Getting new work : Who do I want for my client? ; Big or small? -- Communicate with your client : Do's and don'ts ; Sometimes your busi…