A good poster creates awareness and interest among the people. It inspires and takes people towards action. It consists of 3 main parts. The first usually announces the purpose or the approach, the second sets out conditions and the third recommends action. A poster should be bold enough to attract attention of the people and should communicate only one idea at a time. It should have simple letters which are clear and forceful. The size of the poster should not be less than 50-75 cm
A poster helps the extension workers to get across one idea to the audience, it is a visual which has to catch the attention of the audience and pass on to them a simple message at a glance. The audience should become aware of the event, practice or idea you want to communicate.
A poster has to be bold in design, simple to understand and attractive in colour. Its components may be: a) picture or illustration, b) the words, c) colour and d) space.
Picture or illustration: it should be such as to bring out the message clearly at a glance. If it is a drawing, the actual thing to be shown should be brought out in bold relief. Avoid unnecessary details so that viewer’s attention is not confused. If you use a photograph, avoid unwanted surroundings and bring out the point prominently. While preparing illustrations keep in mind the experience of the audience and use objects familiar to them.
Caption in words: As small as possible. A five word caption is the best. Never write the caption vertically as it creates difficulty in reading do not break the caption.
Colour: Use bright attractive colours. The centre core can be highlighted with a more prominent colour. Even in the caption some prominent word can be given a different colour. Do not use more than three colours, otherwise it may be confusing. Do not use odd combinations of colours.
Space: If a poster is loaded with pictures and words the viewer gets lost. So provide adequate space.
Layout: it should be well balanced so that the viewers can travel smoothly and quickly through the caption and illustration. It should hold his attention and clearly bring out the message to the viewer.
Check: After the rough layout is complete show it to some people of the level of your audience. If there is any misconception or ambiguity, remove it. The poster should recommend action. It should be placed where people pass or gather. It should give only one idea and details should be given through other media.
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