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Negative space

Negative space, also known as white space, is an empty area around, between, and inside the text, images, and graphic elements. It creates breathing room for all objects on a page, makes the design more comfortable to scan, and adds emphasis and clarity.

Negative space works because of Gestalt principles.[1] Grouping elements is in human nature. We subconsciously arrange the elements we see into an organized system that creates a whole. Empty spaces in a layout help this grouping by creating clear boundaries between those design elements.

Pro Tip: In print, negative space is the white space around text and between lines. In UI design, it can be any color, or even a subtle pattern or texture.

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