If you have been searching for a structured, no-fluff path to go from "confused beginner" to "competent UI designer," this is the definitive review and guide to the 2021 update.
: Assignments challenge students to critique existing sites before building their own.
Before calling it done, run this checklist from Erik's 2021 update:
: He stopped struggling with RGB and learned why HSB (Hue, Saturation, Brightness) is the real key to professional color palettes. The Power of Gray learn ui design by erik kennedy updated 2021
| Lesson | Key Concept | 2021 Twist | |--------|-------------|-------------| | | Use size, weight, and color to create hierarchy | Contrast ratios for WCAG 2.1 AA compliance | | Typography | Stick to 2–3 font sizes, use rem/em | Variable fonts & responsive type scales | | Color theory | 60-30-10 rule for UI | Use HSL for systematic color palettes | | Spacing systems | 8pt grid for consistency | Auto-layout + padding/margin variables | | Components | Buttons, cards, inputs, modals | Variants & component properties (Figma) | | Feedback & states | Hover, active, disabled, loading | Focus rings for keyboard navigation |
Here is what the 2021 version added:
– You submit designs. Erik or senior TAs give video critiques. This is rare for a course at this price point. If you have been searching for a structured,
The 2021 update aimed to keep pace with the increasing reliance on and the growing complexity of user interfaces. It reinforced the importance of accessibility and responsive design, ensuring that techniques learned are directly applicable to modern, high-paying design jobs. Students reported that the updated color theory and component design sections were game-changers for their productivity and visual skills. Who is this Course For? Graphic Designers: Looking to transition into UI/UX.
: Designing controls, states, icons, and complex data visualizations.
While many design courses focus on replicating the current "Dribbble trend" (Neumorphism, Glassmorphism, etc.), Kennedy emphasizes that "design isn't art, it's about solving problems". He teaches the underlying psychology and physics of why a gradient looks smooth, why borders should be consistent, and how to think like a user rather than a database. The Power of Gray | Lesson | Key
I appreciate you asking for a proper review of — specifically focusing on the updated 2021 version. Many older reviews miss the significant changes made in that update.
: A highly active forum where students submit homework for feedback from Erik and a team of professional mentors.
Common beginner mistakes and fixes