Squares Circles, and Triangles Present Great Psychological Impact In Designs

Photo Credit: https://www.123rf.com/photo_2751571_confetti-made-of-multi-colored-triangles-circles-and-squares-scattered-on-pale-green-back-round-.html

The psychology of shapes is very important because it can help your design makes sense. Geometric shapes are the most impactful when you are trying to promote a brand or business. Geometric shapes include circles, squares, triangles, rectangles, and crosses. We all know about geometric shapes because we were taught them in our early school years. Squares, circles, and triangles are three of the most recognizable geometric shapes.

Rectangles and squares have straight, simple edges that represent stability. Squares represent building blocks, meaning that we are often exposed to their psychological message when we are children. A lot of professional business logos are in the shape of a square because they want to promote trustworthiness. Stephen Peate explained that squares also represent strength and stability.

However, squares and rectangles could be interpreted as shapes that are boring. It is important to use different colors in squares within a singular infographic because it helps increase interest without letting go of the stability that the squares provide. Squares might not be as physically attractive as the other geometric shapes, but colors can definitely enhance their impact.

It is safe to say that circles are the exact opposite of squares and rectangles. They promote openness, togetherness, and warmth. Past research has shown that infant babies are more likely to look at circles and ovals than all other shapes.

Triangles are impactful shapes because they shape our attention upward. When triangles are placed upright, they promote balance. However, if a triangle is upside down, it sends the message that we need to take caution.

There are so many logical shapes that you could use in design, but we always have to remember that it is necessary to keep things simple. An excellent way to simplify your design is by sketching out all of your shapes and erasing them, narrowing them down to find out which ones are the most important. At the end of the day, it is about the message that you are trying to convey, so stick to that message with your shapes and create the most convincing infographic that you can.

Infographic Credit: Michael Reiner

Here is a video with more information about how circles, squares, and shapes are interpreted from an emotional standpoint (2D Animation 101)

References

The Meaning of Shapes and How to Use Them Creatively in Your Designs

The Psychological Meanings Behind Familiar Shapes (And How to Use Them) - The Shutterstock Blog

Psychology of the Mandala

The (Sometimes Hidden) Meaning of Shapes

Getting Your Brand in Shape: The Psychology of Logo Shapes