Proximity

The proximity principle holds that

  • writers enhance readability and aid comprehension by chunking information together that belongs together—and, conversely, separating information that belongs elsewhere
  • readers assume that elements located next to one another are related, a part of a whole.

Proximity is a design principle derived from Gestalt, Gestalt Theory, which posits that our minds seek order by interpreting patterns from the chaos of experience

Obviously, you don’t want your work to appear like a jigsaw puzzle. Instead, you want to use commonplace organizational scenarios so your readers understand your purposecan create focus and highlight your message by organizing similar elements together. By grouping related information, you can reduce clutter.

Related Concepts: Design; Organization


Oppermann, L. (2021, March 12). The gestalt principle of proximity — in action. Medium.

Read More:

Other Topics: