Communication Technology 11 · Week 1 · Part 2

Build the launch graphic

Class 2 · 0–50 min · Follow every step in order. Do not skip the expected-result check.

Before you begin: Open the student ZIP, place it in a named course folder, preserve the originals, and save a versioned working file before editing.

Linear build

Do → inspect → repair

Every visible outcome is taught below. A step is not finished until your screen or evidence matches the expected result.

Current Photoshop 2026 or supplied production screenshot. Match the named tool/path; minor panel placement may differ.

Step 6

Construct the wordmark

Editable type plus one shape

Hotkey: No required shortcut — use the named menu or panel.

Expected result
Simple original mark remains readable small and one-colour

Why this matters
Week 1 rewards control over illustration complexity

Warning — common failure
Tracing an existing logo

Repair it
Use the client name and one original geometric move

Step 7

Save and capture the style tile

02_working and 04_evidence

Hotkey: Cmd/Ctrl Shift S

Expected result
Named PSD and screenshot show palette, type roles, wordmark and guides

Why this matters
The system must be inspectable before application

Warning — common failure
Saving only a screenshot

Repair it
Keep the editable PSD

Step 8

Create the delivery document

File > New; 1080 x 1080; RGB; sRGB

Hotkey: Cmd/Ctrl N

Expected result
Correct square canvas opens with guides

Why this matters
Format shapes layout decisions from the start

Warning — common failure
Designing inside the style tile

Repair it
Create a separate launch document

Step 9

Place and crop the photograph

File > Place Embedded > Free Transform

Hotkey: Cmd/Ctrl T

Expected result
Subject is clear and a calm type zone remains

Why this matters
Composition must make room for language

Warning — common failure
Covering the busiest detail with text

Repair it
Move or crop the image before adding boxes

Step 10

Control the text-safe value

Clipped Curves with mask

Hotkey: No required shortcut — use the named menu or panel.

Expected result
Type zone gains contrast without flattening the whole image

Why this matters
Local value is more controlled than global opacity

Warning — common failure
Darkening everything

Repair it
Clip and mask the adjustment

Step 11

Transfer the type system

Named editable text layers

Hotkey: T

Expected result
Headline, essential detail and action match the style tile

Why this matters
Repetition creates recognition

Warning — common failure
Changing fonts to fit gaps

Repair it
Change size and line breaks first

Student check

Answer before moving on

Why create type roles rather than choosing fonts one line at a time?

Why use Place Embedded and Smart Objects?

Checkpoint: A peer can identify the headline, key detail and action in five seconds; all image, type and mark roles remain editable.

Support

Use the supplied safe-area guides and recommended crop for the selected client.

Transfer

Create a second crop with a different focal relationship while preserving the same brand system.

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