Good graphics can help your social media stand out. Whether you’re sharing a post, promoting a service, or building your brand, simple and clear designs can make a big difference.
You don’t need to be a graphic designer to make nice-looking posts. With the right tools and a few easy tips, you can create clean, eye-catching graphics for Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and more.
In this blog post, I’ll share simple tips to help you improve your social media graphics—even if you’re just starting out.
1. Keep Your Design Simple
Don’t try to put too much into one graphic. Too many colours, words, or images can make your post hard to read.
Here’s how to keep it simple:
- Focus on one message per post
- Use only 1–2 fonts
- Leave enough space between text and images
- Avoid busy backgrounds
Simple designs are easier to read and understand—especially on mobile phones.
2. Use the Same Colours and Fonts
Using the same colours and fonts on every post helps people know it’s from you. It also makes your page look more neat and professional.
Pick:
- 2–3 main colours that match your brand
- 1 or 2 easy-to-read fonts
Stick to these choices so your posts look consistent. If you’re not sure which fonts to use, try clean ones like Open Sans or Montserrat.
3. Make Text Easy to Read
Your words should be clear and big enough to read without zooming in.
Tips:
- Use big font sizes for short messages
- Keep sentences short
- Use strong contrast between text and background (light on dark or dark on light)
- Avoid placing text over busy photos
Test how your design looks on a phone—most people use social media on mobile.
4. Use the Right Image Size
Every platform has a recommended size for posts. If you use the wrong size, your image might look blurry or cut off.
Here are common sizes:
- Instagram post: 1080 x 1080 pixels
- Instagram story: 1080 x 1920 pixels
- Facebook post: 1200 x 630 pixels
- LinkedIn post: 1200 x 627 pixels
Tools like Canva have pre-made sizes, so you don’t need to remember them all.
5. Use Good Quality Images
Blurry or stretched images can make your post look unprofessional. Try to use sharp, clear pictures.
Tips:
- Choose high-quality photos
- Avoid overused or fake-looking stock images
- Use the same style for all your graphics
- Compress your images so they load fast
Simple icons and shapes can also make your design look better without making it too crowded.
6. Use Templates
Templates save time and help your posts look more consistent. You can find free and paid templates on tools like Canva.
Try making templates for:
- Quotes
- Announcements
- Blog previews
- Tips or lists
- Client reviews
Once you have a few ready, it’s easier to make posts each week.
7. Focus on One Message
Don’t try to say too many things in one post. Choose one idea and make it clear.
Examples:
- A single quote
- One tip
- A short announcement
- A new service
- A reminder to contact you
If you want to share more, try using a carousel post with 2–5 slides, especially on Instagram.
8. Add a Call to Action
A call to action (or CTA) tells people what to do next. You don’t always have to sell something—just guide them.
Examples:
- “Click the link in bio”
- “Send me a message”
- “Tag a friend”
- “Save this post for later”
You can put your CTA inside the graphic or in your caption. Just make sure it’s clear.
9. Plan Your Posts
When you plan ahead, your posts will look better and feel more organised. You’ll also save time and avoid last-minute stress.
Tips:
- Use a simple calendar to plan posts
- Pick 2–3 types of content (tips, quotes, behind-the-scenes)
- Reuse your templates for faster design
- Schedule posts using tools like Canva or Meta Business Suite
Planning helps you stay consistent and makes your social media feel more professional.
Final Thought
You don’t need to be an expert to make good social media graphics. With simple tools and the right habits, you can create clean, clear, and helpful posts that fit your brand.
Here’s a quick reminder:
- Keep your design simple
- Use the same colours and fonts
- Make text easy to read
- Use the right image size
- Try templates
- Share one message per post
- Add a clear call to action
- Plan your posts ahead of time
The more you practise, the better your posts will get. And if you ever feel stuck, asking a designer for help—even for a few templates—can give you a strong start.
