Although sometimes I start design work right on the computer, I find that my most successful designs often start with a hastily scribbled sketch. Thumbnails don’t have to be super-detailed affairs. Mine are usually composed of rough shapes for logo elements, chicken-scratch copy and mildly Dali-esque drawings. They get the point across, and are a chance to get thoughts in order before moving on to Photoshop or InDesign.

In the middle of a barrage of client emails, or when the publication is waiting on a past-due ad the client forgot to tell you about, it’s not always possible to sit down and have a full-blown brainstorm. A sketch, even if it’s jotted down on a post-it, can mean the difference between an ‘ok’ design and a great design solution. At least for me, it does!

Do you sketch to get your thoughts in order or just jump feet first into a task?