Format determines the size, shape, and file type of a design based on its intended use. A business card design would be small at 2 x 3.5 inches as a vector file, while a magazine ad design would be larger at 8.25 x 10.875 inches. The format also dictates whether a design is created as a vector file for print or a pixel-based file for digital media like the web.

1. Format refers to how a design is set up. The end use of the
design determines not only the file format (pixel or vector)
but also size, shape, and folds.
For example, a design for a business card would be small –
not to exceed the size of the card which is 2 x 3.5 inches. A
design for a magazine ad would be much larger – typically
8.25 x 10.875 inches.
Role of Format
Fundamentals of Design
Unit 1: Format
Module 2: The Role of Format

2. Size is not the only thing the format influences. How you
create the file is also determined by the format. Files for
print would need to be created using vector-based
software while files for digital media such as the web
would be created using pixels.
Role of Format
Fundamentals of Design
Unit 1: Format
Module 2: The Role of Format