The purpose of grids

Initially, grids appeared in print layout to organize pages in newspapers, magazines, and books. Since then, they have leaked into web design and now help with positioning, sizing, and spacing without the extra hassle. You may assume grids kill creativity, and you can perfectly arrange elements without grids.

So what makes grids so beneficial and crucial for design?

• Grids strive for consistency. In the responsive design era — phones, tablets, laptops, and monitors — grids help create consistent designs that fit any screen. Plus, users can always be sure they would find things where they expect them to be.

• Grids maintain hierarchy and arrange elements in the most logical and intuitive way.

• Grids keep things clear so that nothing distracts users from the content.