Color Theory · Page 1 of 6

How do you know what colors to use?

The answer is simple: color theory.

Color theory is the set of guidelines designers use to choose colors that work together.

Understanding color theory can give you the confidence to make decisions in many situations, such as choosing colors for a design or putting together an outfit. With a little knowledge, you’ll have a fresh perspective on color.

In this lesson

  1. The color wheel

    Primary, secondary and tertiary colors, plus hue, tints and shades.

  2. Color themes and symbolism

    Monochromatic, analogous and complementary schemes, and what colors make us feel.

  3. Color harmony

    Unifying color, saturation, contrast, accessibility and temperature.

  4. Color models

    RGB for screens, CMYK for print and HSL for editing.

  5. Test your knowledge

    Four quick practice exercises, including hue, saturation and brightness. They are not graded.

© Created by Sara Rosenstock, Marietta College Graphic Design.