TASC Computer Graphics and Design study plan
TASC Computer Graphics and Design · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Computer Graphics and Design
Define the core vocabulary of computer graphics and design (raster versus vector, resolution, bit depth, color models) in your own written notes
Distinguish additive RGB from subtractive CMYK mixing and predict the result of combining given channel values
Convert between decimal, binary, and hexadecimal color values by hand for at least ten sample colors
Identify the primary file formats (PNG, JPEG, GIF, SVG, TIFF) and state one strength and one limitation of each
Your checkpoint
A one-page reference sheet of graphics terminology plus a 10-row color conversion table you completed without a calculator
Computer Graphics and Design
Explain how resolution, pixel dimensions, and physical print size relate through DPI/PPI, and compute each from the other two
Compare lossy and lossless compression and justify a format choice for three given scenarios
Describe how indexed color and palettes constrain image quality and file size
Diagram the stages of the digital imaging pipeline from capture to display
Your checkpoint
A worked problem set of eight resolution/DPI calculations with a short written justification for each format choice
Computer Graphics and Design
Apply the principles of design (balance, contrast, hierarchy, alignment, proximity, repetition) to critique three sample layouts
Explain color theory terms including hue, saturation, value, complementary, and analogous schemes
Evaluate typography choices using legibility, kerning, leading, and measure criteria
Identify how the rule of thirds and visual weight guide composition decisions
Your checkpoint
A written critique of three layouts, each citing at least four named design principles and one typography observation
Computer Graphics and Design
Describe the RGB, CMYK, HSL, and HSV color models and when each is preferred
Explain color management basics including gamut, profiles, and why screen colors may not match print
Apply accessibility contrast guidance to judge whether text/background pairs are readable
Summarize how the visible spectrum, human perception, and display technology connect
Your checkpoint
A color-model comparison table plus a scored contrast check of six text/background pairs with pass/fail reasoning
Computer Graphics and Design
Trace the raster graphics pipeline from modeling through rasterization to display
Explain the roles of vertices, primitives, transformations, and the frame buffer
Distinguish 2D from 3D coordinate systems and describe how projection maps 3D to 2D
Compare rendering approaches such as real-time versus offline rendering at a conceptual level
Your checkpoint
A labeled diagram of the rasterization pipeline with a paragraph explaining each stage in plain language
Computer Graphics and Design
Describe vector path anatomy including anchor points, handles, strokes, and fills
Explain how Bezier curves are constructed and how control points affect curvature
Compare when vector assets outperform raster assets and vice versa
Outline how layers, masks, and blending modes affect compositing outcomes
Your checkpoint
A hand-drawn Bezier curve exercise with four curves, each annotated to explain how moving a control point changes the shape
Computer Graphics and Design
Explain the difference between the additive and subtractive workflows in a full production scenario
Describe how image editing operations (cropping, resampling, sharpening) alter pixel data
Identify common artifacts such as aliasing, banding, and compression blocking and their causes
Summarize the steps of a typical design-to-production workflow including proofing
Your checkpoint
A troubleshooting guide listing six image artifacts, each with cause, visual symptom, and a prevention strategy
Computer Graphics and Design
Synthesize all domain topics into a single concept map linking terminology, color, design principles, and pipelines
Complete a timed 40-question self-test drawn from your own notes and review every missed item
Re-teach the three weakest concepts aloud or in writing without notes
Build a personal exam-day checklist of formulas and definitions to review
Your checkpoint
A completed concept map plus a scored self-test log showing accuracy before and after targeted review
Milestones
Week 2: Score at least 80% on a self-made 15-question quiz covering terminology, color models, and DPI calculations
Week 4: Produce a design critique and color comparison that a peer can follow without asking clarifying questions
Week 6: Explain the rasterization pipeline and Bezier construction from memory in under five minutes each
Week 8: Reach at least 85% on the timed 40-question self-test and log review notes for every missed item