I have started the design learning road from scratch using Teach Yourself Graphic Design: A Self-Study Course Outline. In the first section it mentions design principles.
The first link : Principles of Design says the principles are
- Balance
- Proximity / Unity
- Alignment
- Repetition / Consistency
- Contrast
- White Space
while another says the following
- Balance
- Rhythm
- Proportion
- Dominance
- Unity
Are the principles generalized such that they can be used under different terms or is there a standardized set of principles one should examine ?