Section 5: Gestalt Principles

Gestalt

The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Proximity

We group objects that are close together as belonging together.

Similarity

We group items that look alike (same color, shape, etc.).

Closure

We fill in missing pieces to make a complete image.

Continuity (Good Continuation)

We prefer smooth, continuous lines over abrupt changes.

Common Fate

We group things moving in the same direction as one object.

Connectedness

Elements that are linked or touching are seen as one group.

Figure-Ground

We perceive objects (figures) as standing out from their background (ground).