How to create a professional looking thread

[Sanctuary]

After looking through random threads, I began to notice how poorly designed some threads were. Of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but I'm beginning to think some people are straight up blind. This is a simple guide on how to construct a simple, yet productive and professional looking thread.

• Step 1 - Header/Title

- For the header/title of the thread, I'd recommend using a graphic design of some type. An added benefit would be to add something about your business in your header. For Example: I sell gold, therefor I have piles of cash in my header. This really catches the eye of the individuals looking at your sale/service. Here are some examples of GFX headers:

1. http://sythe.org/showthread.php?t=925019
2. http://sythe.org/showthread.php?t=902033
3. http://sythe.org/showthread.php?t=858655

- If you're not a GFX person, don't worry, a simple enlarged colored text works just as well. Here are some examples of text headers:

1. http://sythe.org/showthread.php?t=948900
2. http://sythe.org/showthread.php?t=867576
3. http://sythe.org/showthread.php?t=955051

• Step 2 - Coloring

- When designing a thread, the colors used in your pictures/titles/text is vital. A properly colored thread should be easy on the eyes, and everything should just flow. Finding the proper colors to use is simple - just use a color wheel:

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complementary_color​

- The point of the color wheel is to show you what color compliments with another. To use it, simply pick your original color, and go across from it. Here's an example of complimentary coloring (Not saying this is what I'd pick, but it works):

Header

• x
• y
• z

Now here's a bad example:

Header

• x
• y
• z

​

- Personally, I think what works best is using a simple color for your header/title, and keeping all other font white, like This:

Header​

• x
• y
• z

- Note: NEVER use multiple colors! Like THIS. This is far from professional, and very childish looking.

• Step 3 - Presentation

- When offering an item/service, make sure to get your point across in a clear manner. People don't to know your life story, they want the facts, the details. To make it easier to find, use the quote tool to make certain facts stick out, and easily accessible. Make sure you stick to the point, and keep out all excess and unnecessary details. Properly space out your details so it's easier to read - don't mash everything together. Also, proper grammar and punctuation is vital!

- THIS is an example of a very well structured thread.

- THIS is an example of a very poorly constructed thread.

Congratulations! You now know everything you need to create a successful, professional thread!​

All constructive criticism is welcome!

 

[Nyx]

Overall a great guide. I like structure and the layout, except for one thing: unless you prefer a simple looking guide, try to use some colors for your titles.

 

[dhuan]

Great guide, thanks for the wheel colour idea.

 

[Snobb3n]

Thanks for the guide, will keep that in mind!

 

[Snow Patrol]

Color wheel looks nice, might wanna add some popular tags that make first posts pop as well like IMG and Center.

 

[I_DONT_BOT]

Perfect, just what I need to help my threads look nicer!

 

[master414]

Nice guide, I would like to add that the choice of font really helps, are large and clear font always make it seem professional for me.

 

[Jenka]

thanks for this guide it sure helps