70 Must-Read Books for Aspiring Designers

Curious why some products become part of your daily routine while others fade away? The answer lies in understanding what truly hooks users—how design, psychology, and habit-forming strategies work together to keep people coming back. Dive into this essential reading list and discover how the world’s best designers create experiences you can’t put down.

I’m Riten, founder of Fueler a platform dedicated to helping designers, creators, and freelancers showcase their best work and get noticed. My passion is making high-quality, practical content accessible for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills. Through curated lists and actionable insights, I aim to empower you to build a standout design journey.

1. The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman

Don Norman explores how design serves people, not just aesthetics. Through real-world examples, he explains why some products are intuitive while others frustrate users. This book teaches the fundamentals of usability, human-centered design, and the psychology behind good design, making it a must-read for anyone who wants to create products people truly enjoy using.

2. Don’t Make Me Think by Steve Krug

Steve Krug’s classic on web usability simplifies the principles of intuitive navigation and user-friendly interfaces. With humor and practical advice, he shows how to make websites and apps easy to use. This book is perfect for beginners and professionals alike, offering clear guidelines to ensure your digital designs are both effective and accessible.

3. Refactoring UI by Adam Wathan & Steve Schoger

Refactoring UI is packed with actionable tips for improving digital interfaces. It covers layout, color, typography, and visual hierarchy with before-and-after case studies. The authors demonstrate how small design tweaks can make a big impact, making this book an essential resource for anyone looking to polish and professionalize their UI work.

4. About Face by Alan Cooper

Alan Cooper’s comprehensive guide to interaction design covers everything from personas to interface behaviors. The book delves into user-centered design, offering real-world project examples and actionable advice. It’s essential reading for anyone working on digital products, helping you master the art of creating interfaces that truly serve user needs and expectations.

5. Seductive Interaction Design by Stephen Anderson

Stephen Anderson explores the psychology behind engaging digital experiences, focusing on motivation, emotional triggers, and subtle cues that make products irresistible. Packed with practical tips and real-life case studies, this book is a must-read for designers who want to create memorable, delightful, and habit-forming user interactions in their digital products.

6. Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products by Nir Eyal

Nir Eyal introduces the Hook Model, a framework for creating products that users return to repeatedly. The book explains habit loops, triggers, and rewards with case studies from top tech companies. It’s essential for designers and product creators who want to build sticky, engaging digital experiences that keep users coming back for more.

7. 100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People by Susan Weinschenk

Susan Weinschenk breaks down key psychological principles that influence design decisions. With bite-sized lessons on perception, attention, and memory, this book is backed by research and practical examples. Understanding how people think and behave will help you make smarter, more effective design choices that truly resonate with users.

8. Lean UX by Jeff Gothelf

Lean UX focuses on rapid experimentation, collaboration, and user feedback in the design process. Jeff Gothelf’s approach is rooted in agile design, offering real-world techniques and emphasizing teamwork. This book is perfect for designers who want to build better products faster and adapt quickly to changing requirements in dynamic environments.

9. The User Experience Team of One by Leah Buley

Leah Buley offers a survival guide for solo designers managing all aspects of UX. The book provides practical tools, templates, and advice for handling research, design, and testing alone. Step-by-step process guides make it easy to deliver quality UX work, making this book ideal for freelancers and small teams.

10. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

Austin Kleon’s inspiring book encourages designers to embrace influence, remix ideas, and foster creativity. Through engaging stories and simple exercises, he shows how to overcome creative blocks and unlock artistic potential. This book is perfect for anyone wanting to develop a more original, confident design voice and find inspiration in everyday life.

11. Thinking with Type by Ellen Lupton

Ellen Lupton’s go-to resource for understanding typography demystifies type anatomy, layout, and grids. The book provides visual examples and hands-on exercises, making it easy to grasp the essentials of effective type use. Ideal for both print and digital designers, it helps you elevate your work through better font choices and layout strategies.

12. Logo Design Love by David Airey

David Airey’s guide to creating memorable logos is filled with case studies, process tips, and real client stories. The book breaks down the steps to successful branding and logo creation, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to master the art of visual identity and create logos that stand the test of time.

13. Interaction of Color by Josef Albers

Josef Albers explores color theory and perception through practical experiments and exercises. This influential book is a staple in art and design education, helping readers understand how colors interact and affect each other. Mastering color theory with Albers’ insights will elevate every aspect of your design projects, from branding to interfaces.

14. Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller

Donald Miller teaches how to clarify your brand message and connect with customers through storytelling. The book provides frameworks for crafting compelling narratives and practical marketing advice. It’s a must-read for designers working on branding and communication, helping you create brands that resonate and inspire loyalty.

15. Creative Confidence by Tom & David Kelley

Written by the founders of IDEO, Creative Confidence shows how to unlock your creative potential and innovate in any field. Through stories and techniques, it encourages experimentation, overcoming fear, and building a creative mindset. This book is a powerful motivator for designers seeking to bring fresh ideas to life.

16. Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon

Austin Kleon explains how to share your creative process and build an audience. The book offers tips for self-promotion, transparency, and attracting opportunities by being open about your journey. It’s a great motivator for designers looking to grow their personal brand and connect with others in the creative community.

17. Sprint by Jake Knapp

Sprint details the Google Ventures sprint process for solving big problems and testing ideas in just five days. Packed with step-by-step guides, real startup stories, and templates, this book is a practical resource for rapid prototyping, innovation, and getting actionable results in a short time frame.

18. Designing Design by Kenya Hara

Kenya Hara’s philosophical and practical look at design features essays on simplicity, meaning, and thoughtful design. Drawing from his work with Muji, Hara inspires readers to think deeply about the impact of their creations and the importance of clarity and intention in every design decision.

19. The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda

John Maeda explores ten laws for balancing simplicity and complexity in design. With short, insightful chapters and real-world applications, this book inspires creative professionals to make their work more effective and approachable, showing that simplicity is a powerful competitive advantage in design.

20. Universal Principles of Design by William Lidwell, Kritina Holden, & Jill Butler

This comprehensive reference covers 125 design principles, from alignment to visibility. Each principle is explained with clear examples and illustrations, making it a must-have guide for designers seeking to make informed, effective design decisions that stand up to real-world challenges.

21. The Elements of User Experience by Jesse James Garrett

Jesse James Garrett breaks down the layers of user experience, from strategy to surface. The book clarifies how content, structure, and visual design work together, making it essential reading for anyone building digital products and striving to deliver seamless, enjoyable user experiences.

22. Designing for Interaction by Dan Saffer

Dan Saffer provides a practical introduction to interaction design, covering methods, tools, and best practices. Filled with case studies and actionable advice, this book is ideal for both new and experienced designers who want to create engaging, effective interactions in their digital products.

23. Grid Systems in Graphic Design by Josef Müller-Brockmann

This classic text on grid-based design explains the theory and application of grids in visual communication. It’s a foundational resource for designers working in print, web, or mobile interfaces, helping you create balanced, harmonious layouts that enhance readability and visual appeal.

24. Emotional Design by Don Norman

Don Norman explores how emotions influence the way people interact with products. The book reveals why attractive things work better and how to design for pleasure, satisfaction, and delight. It’s essential reading for designers seeking to create products that connect with users on an emotional level.

25. The Non-Designer’s Design Book by Robin Williams

Robin Williams introduces the basics of graphic design, including alignment, contrast, repetition, and proximity. The book is beginner-friendly and full of practical tips for improving any design project, making it a great starting point for those new to design or looking to refresh their skills.

26. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Daniel Kahneman’s groundbreaking work on human decision-making explains how people think and make choices. Designers will gain valuable insights into user behavior and how to design for real-world thinking patterns, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in user psychology.

27. The Shape of Design by Frank Chimero

Frank Chimero’s essays explore the philosophy and process of design, focusing on creativity, storytelling, and the human side of design work. It’s a thoughtful read for anyone seeking deeper meaning in their craft and wanting to understand the bigger picture of design’s role in society.

28. Just Enough Research by Erika Hall

Erika Hall demystifies the research process, showing how to gather useful insights without getting overwhelmed. The book covers interviews, surveys, usability tests, and more, making research accessible for any designer who wants to make informed, user-centered decisions.

29. The Art of Looking Sideways by Alan Fletcher

A visual and literary exploration of creativity, perception, and design, this book is packed with inspiration, puzzles, and thought-provoking ideas. Alan Fletcher encourages designers to see the world differently and find creativity in unexpected places, making it a delightful resource for creative minds.

30. Made to Stick by Chip Heath & Dan Heath

Chip and Dan Heath uncover why some ideas stick while others fade away. The book provides practical tips for crafting memorable, impactful messages—a valuable skill for designers working on branding, communication, and storytelling in their projects.

31. Designing Brand Identity by Alina Wheeler

Alina Wheeler’s step-by-step guide to brand identity creation covers research, strategy, design, and implementation. The book is full of case studies and practical frameworks, making it an essential resource for anyone involved in building or refreshing a brand.

32. The Visual Display of Quantitative Information by Edward Tufte

Edward Tufte’s classic on data visualization teaches how to present complex information clearly and effectively. The book is essential for designers working with charts, graphs, and infographics, helping you communicate data in a way that is both beautiful and understandable.

33. Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited by Steve Krug

An updated version of the original classic, this edition includes new examples and insights for today’s web and mobile designers. Steve Krug’s principles remain as relevant as ever for creating intuitive digital experiences that users love.

34. Resonate by Nancy Duarte

Nancy Duarte explains how to craft presentations that move people. The book blends storytelling, design, and communication, making it a must-read for anyone who wants to inspire audiences and communicate ideas with clarity and impact.

35. Designing Interfaces by Jenifer Tidwell

Jenifer Tidwell’s book is a comprehensive guide to common interface patterns and best practices. With hundreds of examples, it’s a valuable resource for designing effective and familiar user interfaces across web, mobile, and desktop platforms.

36. The Field Guide to Human-Centered Design by IDEO.org

This practical manual introduces the principles and methods of human-centered design. It includes exercises, case studies, and tools for solving real-world problems with empathy and creativity, making it perfect for designers who want to make a positive impact.

37. The Best Interface is No Interface by Golden Krishna

Golden Krishna challenges the obsession with screens and advocates for designing seamless, invisible interactions. The book inspires designers to think beyond traditional interfaces and focus on real user needs, encouraging innovation in how we interact with technology.

38. Universal Methods of Design by Bella Martin & Bruce Hanington

A reference of 100 research methods and design techniques, this book is perfect for expanding your toolkit and choosing the right approach for any project. It’s a practical resource for designers who want to improve their process and outcomes.

39. The Brand Gap by Marty Neumeier

Marty Neumeier explains how to bridge the gap between business strategy and design. The book is concise, visual, and packed with insights for building powerful brands that stand out in the marketplace and connect with customers.

40. The Art of Innovation by Tom Kelley

Tom Kelley shares stories and strategies from IDEO, one of the world’s leading design firms. The book covers brainstorming, prototyping, and fostering a culture of innovation, making it a valuable resource for creative teams and leaders.

41. Designing Web Usability by Jakob Nielsen

Jakob Nielsen’s classic work on web usability provides guidelines and best practices for creating user-friendly websites. It’s a must-read for anyone working in web design, offering timeless advice for improving site navigation and accessibility.

42. The Elements of Typographic Style by Robert Bringhurst

Robert Bringhurst’s book is a comprehensive guide to typography, covering history, theory, and practical use. It’s essential for anyone serious about type, offering deep insights into how to use typography to enhance communication and design.

43. Don’t Make Me Think: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability by Steve Krug

This foundational book simplifies the principles of web usability, making it easier for designers to create intuitive, user-friendly websites and apps. Steve Krug’s advice is practical, actionable, and easy to apply to any digital project.

44. Thinking in Systems by Donella H. Meadows

Donella Meadows introduces systems thinking, a valuable approach for understanding complex problems and designing effective solutions. This book helps designers see the bigger picture and create products that work well within larger systems.

45. Information Architecture for the World Wide Web by Peter Morville & Louis Rosenfeld

Known as the “polar bear book,” this guide covers the principles of organizing and structuring information for websites and apps. It’s essential for designers who want to create clear, navigable, and user-friendly digital experiences.

46. The Innovator’s DNA by Jeff Dyer, Hal Gregersen & Clayton Christensen

This book explores the habits and skills of successful innovators, offering practical advice for fostering creativity and breakthrough ideas. It’s a valuable resource for designers who want to drive innovation in their work and organizations.

47. The UX Book by Rex Hartson & Pardha S. Pyla

A comprehensive textbook covering the full UX process, from research to prototyping and evaluation. Suitable for both students and professionals, it offers detailed guidance on creating user-centered products and experiences.

48. Creative Workshop by David Sherwin

David Sherwin offers 80 creative exercises to help designers practice new skills, break creative blocks, and build confidence in their craft. It’s a hands-on resource for anyone looking to grow through experimentation and play.

49. The Little Book of Design by David Airey

David Airey distills his design wisdom into a pocket-sized guide, offering tips, quotes, and lessons for designers at any stage. It’s a quick reference for inspiration and practical advice on the go.

50. The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz

Barry Schwartz examines how too many choices can overwhelm users and how designers can simplify decision-making through smart design. This book is essential for anyone interested in creating products that reduce friction and help users make confident decisions.

51. The Design Thinking Playbook by Michael Lewrick, Patrick Link & Larry Leifer

This hands-on guide introduces design thinking principles and tools, with exercises and real-world examples for applying them to any challenge. It’s ideal for designers looking to innovate and solve complex problems creatively.

52. The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp

Twyla Tharp shares routines, exercises, and stories to help creatives build discipline and unlock their artistic potential. The book is filled with practical advice for developing habits that lead to consistent, high-quality creative work.

53. Designing Products People Love by Scott Hurff

Scott Hurff explains how to build digital products that users adore, with insights from top product designers and practical frameworks. This book is a guide to understanding user needs and creating experiences that delight.

54. The User is Always Right by Steve Mulder & Ziv Yaar

A guide to creating personas and using them to inform design decisions, making products more user-centered. The book includes templates, examples, and best practices for building empathy with users.

55. The Laws of UX by Jon Yablonski

Jon Yablonski presents key psychological principles and how they apply to user experience design, with clear visuals and examples. This book is a concise, practical reference for anyone looking to improve the usability and appeal of their products.

56. The Design Method by Eric Karjaluoto

Eric Karjaluoto offers a step-by-step process for solving design problems, from research to execution, with a focus on practical results. The book is filled with real-world examples and actionable advice for working designers.

57. How to Be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul by Adrian Shaughnessy

Adrian Shaughnessy covers the realities of working as a designer, including freelancing, ethics, and building a career with integrity. The book is honest, practical, and inspiring for anyone navigating the design industry.

58. The Psychology of Everyday Things by Don Norman

Don Norman’s earlier work explores how design affects behavior, perception, and usability, laying the groundwork for modern UX. It’s a foundational text for understanding the relationship between people and products.

59. The Art of Color by Johannes Itten

Johannes Itten’s classic book on color theory is filled with exercises, diagrams, and insights for mastering color in design. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to improve their use of color in creative projects.

60. The Sketchnote Handbook by Mike Rohde

Mike Rohde introduces the art of sketchnoting—visual note-taking that combines words and simple drawings to capture ideas quickly and creatively. This book makes it easy for anyone to start using sketchnotes, offering step-by-step techniques, inspiring examples, and practical tips. It’s perfect for designers who want to communicate visually and remember concepts more effectively.

61. The Back of the Napkin by Dan Roam

Dan Roam demonstrates how simple sketches can solve complex problems and communicate ideas with clarity. Through real-world business examples, he shows how drawing—even basic stick figures—can unlock creativity and help teams think visually. This book empowers designers to use drawing as a tool for brainstorming, problem-solving, and persuasive storytelling.

62. The Designer’s Dictionary of Color by Sean Adams

Sean Adams presents a comprehensive guide to color, exploring its history, cultural meanings, and practical applications in design. Each entry explains how to use colors effectively, with examples from branding, fashion, and art. This beautifully illustrated book is an essential reference for designers seeking to make informed, impactful color choices in their work.

63. Universal Principles of Typography by Elliot Jay Stocks

Elliot Jay Stocks distills the most important rules of typography into clear, actionable insights. Covering everything from font pairing and hierarchy to spacing and readability, this book is packed with visual examples and practical advice. It’s a handy guide for designers who want to elevate their typographic skills and create visually harmonious layouts.

64. The UX Research Playbook by Alex Wright

Alex Wright offers a hands-on approach to user experience research, guiding designers through interviews, usability testing, and data analysis. The book features real-world case studies and step-by-step instructions for gathering actionable insights. It’s an invaluable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of users and improve product design through research.

65. The Human Interface by Jef Raskin

Jef Raskin, the creator of the original Apple Macintosh project, explores the foundations of human-computer interaction. He discusses how interfaces can be made more intuitive, humane, and user-friendly, challenging designers to rethink the way people interact with technology. This book is a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the future of digital experiences.

66. The Visual (Communication) Designer’s Guide to the Galaxy by David Airey

David Airey’s guide covers the essentials of visual communication, including layout, branding, and effective messaging. With practical advice, real-life examples, and a touch of humor, Airey equips designers with the tools needed to succeed in a competitive industry. This book is both a roadmap and an inspiration for aspiring visual communicators.

67. The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood by James Gleick

James Gleick traces the evolution of information, from ancient communication methods to the digital age. He explains how information shapes our world, influences design, and drives innovation. This sweeping narrative is ideal for designers who want to understand the bigger picture of how information flows and impacts creativity and technology.

68. The Creative’s Guide to Starting a Business by Harriet Kelsall

Harriet Kelsall provides practical, step-by-step advice for creatives launching their own businesses. Covering everything from branding and pricing to client management and legal essentials, this book demystifies entrepreneurship for designers. It’s an encouraging, actionable guide for anyone ready to turn their creative passion into a successful, sustainable venture.

69. The Design of Business by Roger Martin

Roger Martin explores how design thinking can transform organizations and drive innovation. Through case studies and practical frameworks, he shows how integrating design into business strategy leads to better products and services. This book is essential reading for designers interested in leadership, business growth, and making a broader impact through design.

70. The Elements of Graphic Design by Alex W. White

Alex W. White covers the fundamental principles of graphic design, including space, unity, page architecture, and typography. With clear explanations and visual examples, he helps designers understand how to create balanced, effective layouts. This book is a foundational resource for anyone looking to master the building blocks of great design.

Final Thought:

Exploring these 70 must-read books is more than just a reading list—it’s a roadmap for anyone serious about design. Each title offers fresh perspectives, practical frameworks, and timeless lessons that will sharpen your skills and expand your creative thinking. Combine your reading with hands-on practice and portfolio building, and you’ll be well-prepared for a successful design journey12.

FAQs

1. Which books are best for beginners in design?

Start with “The Design of Everyday Things,” “Don’t Make Me Think,” and “The Non-Designer’s Design Book” for a solid foundation in usability, visual basics, and user-centered thinking34.

2. Do these books cover both UI and UX topics?

Yes, this list spans both UI and UX, as well as related subjects like user psychology, branding, creativity, and research, ensuring a comprehensive design education.

3. Are there books with practical exercises or case studies?

Many titles, such as “Creative Workshop,” “Sprint,” and “Just Enough Research,” include hands-on exercises, real-world examples, and actionable advice you can apply to your own projects.

4. How can I use these books to build my portfolio?

Apply the lessons, frameworks, and exercises from each book to personal or client projects, document your process, and showcase your growth and results in a well-organized portfolio.

5. Are any of these books available as free resources or eBooks?

Several classics and modern titles are available as eBooks or through online libraries. Check author websites and design communities for free or discounted versions.

What is Fueler Portfolio?

Fueler is a career portfolio platform that helps companies find the best talents for their organization based on their proof of work.

You can create your portfolio on Fueler, thousands of freelancers around the world use Fueler to create their professional-looking portfolios and become financially independent. Discover inspiration for your portfolio

Sign up for free on Fueler or get in touch to learn more.