Whether you’re just starting out as a graphic designer or simply want to broaden your design skill set, it’s always worth checking out online tutorials and courses. These resources can teach you new shortcuts and techniques, as well as provide in-depth lessons about performing different tasks on popular graphic design software.
Below are 3 tutorial/course websites that I’ve found to be very useful. Please note that, unless listed otherwise, these resources may not provide free content!
Skillshare:
A self-described “Global Learning Community” that provides project-based courses in a variety of fields. Through videos, exercises, and discussions, the design classes cover such topics as fundamentals of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, website design, pattern design, modern calligraphy, and book cover design, among others. The project-based framework provides a very structured approach that helps you realize your progression throughout the course.
Tuts+:
This website offers free tutorials as well as paid plans that unlock access to over 400 courses and 170 ebooks. Topics that are covered include design theory, vector design, typographic theory, and more. I recommend this website for looking up tutorials for specific tasks (such as “quickly isolating objects from a background” on Photoshop).
Lynda:
A subscription-based resource, Lynda offers both beginner and advanced courses on topics like design theory, typography, color theory, logo design, etc. The site caters to individuals of all levels of skill and offers quality video courses taught by experts. I recommend this website especially if you are completely new to a software or skill set, and want a step-by-step learning guide. Some videos may be free, but most will require an active subscription before you can view them.
Simple Design 