The graphic design student has to develop some competencies, attitudes and behavioral traits that would allow him to be highly competent in the chosen career or field of study. These attitudes and behavior patterns do not arise by chance. The hobbyist graphic artist or apprentice has to cultivate these traits while undertaking projects patiently and with the utmost care. Some of these competencies, attitudes, and behaviors are discussed below.

1. Ability to observe: the student must develop the ability to make a critical and serious observation and examination of things in the environment in order to make an exact or precise representation of the object or shape. It includes the critical observation of linear patterns, variations in shapes, textures, gradations, or color tones of natural and man-made objects found in the environment.

2. Ability to use memory and imagination to derive and develop ideas: this is the student’s ability to use their own imagination to create things without resorting to copying existing elements. You must cultivate the attitude of generating new and relevant ideas that can be used to create useful graphic products.

3. Ability to pre-create images / visualize and make designs of elements: the student must be able to use their senses, especially the sense of sight, to anticipate or visualize how the imagined idea can be used to create designs that in turn are they can translate into elements.

4. Ability to translate ideas and designs on paper into three-dimensional elements to solve problems or satisfy an identified need using the design process and technology. Designs are two-dimensional or flat. These paper designs are often generated in three-dimensional shapes. The student must be able to meticulously follow the steps of the design and technology process to produce functional elements. You should have the mastery of being able to translate paper designs into standalone elements.

5. Skill and creative use of tools, equipment, and a variety of materials- This refers to the efficient use of tools and materials. This implies the correct handling of the tools to carry out the work. The student must understand the nature and feel of tools and materials in order to use them properly to give the correct effect on the artwork.

6. Application of knowledge and understanding to constant practice to achieve competence and perfection. Ultimately, the student must aspire to achieve perfection in the various techniques of artistic production. You should be able to consistently apply the knowledge you have gained through constant practice to produce items with great competence or skill.

7. Creativity, originality in thought and final products- The young graphic artist must make it his hallmark to produce articles that are original in design, shape, color, etc. Your ability to create new things should be evident in your thinking, as well as in the end products you make.

8. Ability to respond to a work of art through the use of knowledge and skills of perception, appreciation, criticism, judgment, evaluation and aesthetics. The student must have the ability to respond quickly to the works of art with which they come into contact. You should be able to apply your senses well by speaking intelligently about the aesthetic qualities of the work. You must be able to evaluate, appreciate and critique a work of art using the knowledge and skills you have accumulated.

9. Critical thinking and problem solving skills, healthy competition, good human relationships, etc. – The student must also be able to think in concrete terms and always be willing to contribute ideas that can solve the relevant problems faced by individuals in society. Must be able to participate in graphic arts contests and exhibitions held in school, society or country. You must engage with clean and clear motifs to improve your skills while learning and drawing inspiration from the works of other graphic artists.

10. Demonstration of human and moral behavior in thinking, feeling and acting, eg honesty, commitment, self-discipline / respect, diligence, patience, tolerance, teamwork, etc. – There are some moral or behavioral traits that the student must live hard to cultivate. These include honesty, respect, diligence, patience, tolerance, and teamwork. People would like to do business with an honest and respectful person. The student must be patient and tolerant to be able to absorb the pressures of the clients, which can sometimes be irritating or annoying. As a student, you must also be prepared to work with other people to achieve the same goal. This quality would allow you to work in a larger work environment, such as in an industry or a factory. In today’s work environment, teamwork is truly essential to the success of any company.

11. Portfolio of works: the student must cultivate the attitude of maintaining a portfolio of their creative works in printed or printed copies. This would allow you to improve and enhance your creative works at all times.

12. Ability to perform tasks with little or no supervision: The student should be able to perform assigned work with little or no supervision. You must try very hard to work independently with or without a tutor around. This would help you develop your skills at a relatively faster rate.

13. Self-study / assessment for improvement: the student must be experimental, trying to learn new things on their own without being instructed by a teacher or supervisor to do so. You should explore new methods and techniques to achieve existing production methods and techniques. It should be your attitude to try to use the tools and materials available in the environment to produce useful and meaningful artifacts. In addition, you should periodically self-evaluate by comparing your previous and current jobs in order to know the errors in them and improve them.

14. Perseverance: the student must show a fighting spirit by paying attention to their creative works. You should not give up on trying to produce a difficult product or challenging exercise. You should not shy away from handling difficult artistic graphic design products.

15. Time management: the student must be able to manage their time very efficiently. You must have a time limit or be aware of time in the production of your artifacts. You should be able to meet the deadlines set for the production of works.

16. Work ethic: refers to accepted work behavior and attitudes expected of a graphic artist. These accepted work behaviors include neatness, cleanliness, accuracy, and precision, which are the hallmarks of a good graphic artist. The student must be determined to display this work ethic in their artistic productions.

17. Self-confidence: the student must have great confidence in the performance of their duties. It should not show signs of fear. You must trust your skills, qualities, or ideas. This would make it easier for you to master your artistic creations.

18. Communication skills: the student must know how to communicate well with people. Cultivating these communication skills would allow you to communicate effectively with clients. Certainly, people will like to do business with people who speak courteously than with those whose communication cuts like a sword.