Best UI/UX Books You Should Read as a Beginner

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If you’re just starting out in the world of UI/UX design, it can be tough to know where to begin. There are so many books on the subject, and it can be hard to know which of them offer valuable insights in contrast to those that just is a waste of your time or suited better to those who has spent some time in the field. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best UI/UX books for beginners. These books will teach you everything you need to know about the basics of user interface and user experience design.

1. The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman

When it comes to understanding user interface and experience design, few books are as highly regarded as “The Design of Everyday Things: Revised and Expanded Edition.” Written by renowned cognitive scientist Don Norman, the book offers insights on how people interact with various objects in their surroundings and how designers can create products that are both functional and intuitive. In addition to being a critical read for beginners in the field, the revised and expanded edition also includes new examples and information on technological advancements, making it a valuable resource for even seasoned professionals. With its engaging writing style and practical lessons, “The Design of Everyday Things” is undoubtedly one of the must-reads for anyone interested in UI/UX design.

2. UX for Beginners: A Crash Course in 100 Short Lessons by Joel Marsh

Another good book for those who are you new to the field of UI/UX design and unsure where to start is “UX for Beginners: A Crash Course in 100 Short Lessons.” This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for beginners, covering everything from user research to design principles. Each lesson is concise and easy to digest, making it the perfect resource for busy professionals or those just starting out in their career. The book also includes helpful illustrations and real-world examples, bringing the concepts to life. Whether you’re a complete novice or looking to brush up on foundational knowledge, “UX for Beginners” is a yet another must-read for anyone in the field of UI/UX design.

3. Designing Products People Love: How Great Designers Create Successful Products by Torrey Podmajersky

As a UI/UX novice, it can be difficult to know where to begin on your journey to becoming a great designer. Thankfully, “Designing Products People Love” offers valuable insights from some of the industry’s top designers. Each chapter delves into the process and challenges faced by a different designer, offering unique perspectives on how to approach creating successful products. From user research and brainstorming ideas, to prototyping and testing, this book covers every aspect of the design process. It also includes practical exercises for readers to try out their own design techniques. Overall, “Designing Products People Love” is a must-read for any aspiring UI/UX designer looking to improve their skills and create products that people truly love.

4. Inspired: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love by Marty Cagan

As a beginner in the field of UI/UX design, it can be overwhelming trying to navigate all of the resources and information out there. However, “Inspired: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love” by Silicon Valley Product Group makes the learning process easier by breaking down key methods and principles for designing successful products. Not only does it provide practical advice and real-life examples, but it also encourages critical thinking and intentional decision-making. From gathering customer insight to launching your product, this book offers a comprehensive guide for creating tech products that customers love. If you’re a UI/UX beginner, “Inspired” is definitely one of the must-read books on your list.

5. Designing Interfaces: Patterns for Effective Interaction Design by Jenifer Tidwell and Charles Brewer

If you find navigating the sea of the design resources available to be overwhelming to navigate, try to stick to something that is trustworthy like Designing Interfaces: Patterns for Effective Interaction Design 3rd Edition. This book compiles tried and true patterns that not only guide the design process, but also enhance user experience. Personally, it is one of the best books I have come across. This book offers a comprehensive overview of common design patterns, as well as practical advice for designing user-friendly interfaces. The authors’ approach of focusing on the user’s goals, instead of just aesthetics, ensures that designs not only look good but function well. Additionally, the book includes real-life examples and illustrations to further drive home key concepts. Overall, Designing Interfaces is undoubtedly one of the best resources for UI/UX beginners looking to create effective and enjoyable designs. Overall, “Designing Interfaces” is a valuable resource for UI/UX beginners looking to improve their craft. I highly recommend adding it to your reading list.

6. The Art of Color: The Subjective Experience and Objective Rationale of Color by Johannes Itten

“The Art of Color” by Johannes Itten is a must-read for any UI/UX beginner. Itten, a Bauhaus color theory professor, delves into the subjective experience of color as well as the objective rationale behind how colors interact with each other. This understanding is vital for any designer as it allows them to accurately and effectively communicate through color. In addition, the book covers practical design applications such as how to create contrast, harmony, and unity in a design. Its enduring relevance is evident in its continued presence on design reading lists and its appearance in modern design conversations. “The Art of Color” offers valuable insight for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of color theory and its application in design.

7. Project Guide to UX Design, A: For user experience designers in the field or in the making (Voices That Matter) by Russ Unger and Carolyn Chandler

“Project Guide to UX Design” is a must-read for all aspiring user experience designers. In addition to providing valuable insights on project management, the book also includes a comprehensive section on color theory. Understanding color psychology and how it can impact user interaction is crucial in designing effective interfaces. The book offers a variety of practical tips, such as creating harmonious color palettes and effectively utilizing contrast, as well as delving into the cultural significance of colors. Overall, “Project Guide to UX Design” offers both beginner and experienced designers valuable information on utilizing color effectively in their designs.

8. UX Research: practical techniques for designing better products by Brad Nunnally and David Farkas

Another book that offers practical techniques for incorporating color theory into design is UX Research: practical techniques for designing better products. This book offers a comprehensive overview of the various types of UX research, from user interviews to usability testing. It also provides practical tips for planning and conducting research in an efficient and effective manner. In addition, the book delves into the importance of considering color theory in the design process, helping designers create visually appealing and user-friendly products. Overall, “UX Research” is a valuable tool for any UI/UX beginner looking to improve their research skills and understand the role of color in design.

Conclusion

So remember that if you’re just getting started in UI/UX design, these are the books any UX design specialists or UI professionals will recommend you read. They’ll teach you everything you need to know about the basics of the field and help you get started on creating your own great designs.