Nadir Academy
Student Handout Pack · 2025
Course
Handouts
Visual Theory Guides · Professional Workflow Templates
Branding & Business Assets
💻 Office Applications 🎨 Graphic Designing
10
Handouts
10
A4 Pages
2
Courses
NADIR ACADEMY · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 · TPSC Reg. No. 1791
NADIR ACADEMY
Computer Fundamentals & Windows OS
Office Applications
Handout #01
Computer Fundamentals
& Windows OS
Your complete guide to understanding hardware, operating Windows, and staying productive from Day 1.
Computer Components at a Glance
CPU (Processor)
The "brain" of the computer. Executes all instructions. Speed measured in GHz.
RAM (Memory)
Temporary workspace. More RAM = faster multitasking. Measured in GB.
Hard Drive / SSD
Permanent storage for files, OS, and programs. SSD is faster than HDD.
Monitor
Output device. Displays visuals. Size in inches, resolution in pixels (HD/FHD).
Windows Installation Steps
1
Create Bootable USB
Download Windows ISO. Use Rufus tool to write to USB drive.
2
Enter BIOS/UEFI
Restart PC. Press F2, F12, or Del. Set USB as first boot device.
3
Install Windows
Follow wizard. Select partition. Wait 15–25 minutes for setup.
4
Install Drivers
Install display, network, audio drivers from manufacturer site.
5
Install Software
MS Office, antivirus, browser, InPage Urdu, Adobe tools.
Essential Windows Shortcuts
Win + EOpen File Explorer
Win + DShow Desktop
Alt + F4Close Program
Ctrl + ZUndo Last Action
Win + LLock Screen
Ctrl + C/VCopy / Paste
Print ScrnScreenshot
Ctrl + Alt + DelTask Manager
File Management Rules
  • ✓
    Always save files with meaningful names — not "doc1" or "untitled"
  • ✓
    Organize files in folders: Documents → Subject → Year
  • ✓
    Use Ctrl+S to save every 5 minutes while working
  • ✓
    Empty Recycle Bin regularly to free up disk space
  • ✓
    Back up important files to USB drive or Google Drive
  • ✓
    Never download software from unknown websites — use official sources
💡

Pro Tip: Create a shortcut on your Desktop for your most-used folder. Right-click folder → Send to → Desktop (create shortcut).

Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Computer Fundamentals · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Microsoft Word — Professional Documents
Office Applications
Handout #02
Microsoft Word
Professional Documents
Master Word from formatting to mail merge — create documents that look professionally printed.
Document Formatting Hierarchy
Heading Styles (H1–H3)
Use built-in Heading styles for structure. Enables auto Table of Contents and consistent formatting.
Page Layout
Set margins to 2.54cm (1 inch) on all sides. Use A4 page size for all official documents.
Paragraph Styles
Line spacing: 1.15 for normal text, 1.5 for formal reports. Never press Enter twice for spacing.
Essential Word Shortcuts
Ctrl + BBold
Ctrl + IItalic
Ctrl + UUnderline
Ctrl + ECenter Align
Ctrl + JJustify Text
Ctrl + SSave
Ctrl + PPrint
F7Spell Check
Ctrl + HFind & Replace
Ctrl + KInsert Link
Professional Document Types
  • ✓
    CV / Resume — Use table layout, no photo border, 1–2 pages max
  • ✓
    Application Letter — Formal header, date, subject, salutation, body, closing
  • ✓
    Business Report — Title page, ToC, sections with headings, page numbers
  • ✓
    Notice / Memo — To, From, Date, Subject — bold and short
  • ✓
    Mail Merge — Letter + Excel data source = bulk personalized letters
📌

Remember: Always use "Save As PDF" before sending any document. PDFs preserve your formatting on every device.

Practice Exercise
📝 Task: Create a Job Application Letter

Write a formal application for the post of "Computer Operator" to any government office. Include: Your name & address · Date · Recipient details · Subject line · 3-paragraph body · Closing with signature. Apply Heading styles, 1-inch margins, justified text, and export as PDF.

Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Microsoft Word · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Microsoft Excel — Data & Spreadsheets
Office Applications
Handout #03
Microsoft Excel
Data & Spreadsheets
From entering numbers to building powerful formulas — Excel is the most in-demand skill for office and banking jobs.
Essential Formulas Reference
FormulaWhat it DoesExampleResult
=SUM(A1:A10)Adds all values in a rangeTotal of 10 feesRs. 40,000
=AVERAGE(B1:B10)Calculates the mean valueAverage marks of class72.5
=COUNT(C1:C20)Counts cells with numbersStudents who gave test18
=IF(D1>=50,"Pass","Fail")Checks condition, returns textPass/Fail by marksPass
=MAX(E1:E15)Returns the highest valueTop scorer in class98
=MIN(E1:E15)Returns the lowest valueLowest score41
=VLOOKUP(A1,B:D,2,0)Looks up value in a tableFind student fee by IDRs. 4,000
=CONCATENATE(A1," ",B1)Joins text from two cellsFirst + Last nameAli Ahmed
=TODAY()Returns today's dateAuto-fill today's date17-Apr-2025
=COUNTIF(A:A,"Pass")Counts cells matching criteriaHow many students passed14
Excel Shortcuts
Ctrl + TCreate Table
Alt + =AutoSum
Ctrl + 1Format Cells
F2Edit Cell
Ctrl + Shift + LAdd Filter
Ctrl + DFill Down
Ctrl + HomeGo to Cell A1
Alt + H + O + IAutoFit Column
Practical Excel Projects
  • ★
    Fee Register — Student list with monthly fees, paid/unpaid, late fines auto-calculated
  • ★
    Attendance Sheet — Daily attendance with % formula and highlight absent
  • ★
    Result Sheet — Marks entry, grade formula (A+/A/B/C), rank function
  • ★
    Salary Sheet — Basic + allowances - deductions = net pay with tax
  • ★
    Inventory List — Items, quantity, price, total value with running total
🎯

Job Tip: In government job computer tests, Excel formula questions are most common. Practice SUM, IF, VLOOKUP, and AVERAGE daily.

Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Microsoft Excel · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Google Workspace & Internet Safety
Office Applications
Handout #04
Google Workspace
& Internet Safety
Work from anywhere with Google's professional cloud tools — collaborate in real time and keep your data safe online.
Google Workspace Tools Overview
Google Docs
Like MS Word, but cloud-based. Real-time collaboration — multiple people edit simultaneously. Auto-saves every second.
Google Sheets
Like MS Excel in the cloud. Supports most Excel formulas. Share with team for real-time data updates and reports.
Google Drive
15GB free cloud storage. Access files from any device, anywhere. Share files with view/edit/comment permissions.
Google Meet
Free HD video meetings up to 100 people. Screen sharing, chat, recording. No software install needed.
Google Forms
Create surveys, quizzes, and feedback forms. Responses auto-collected in Google Sheets for easy analysis.
Google Slides
Cloud-based presentations. Team can edit slides together. Present directly from browser — no PowerPoint needed.
Internet Safety Rules
  • 🔒
    Use strong passwords: 12+ characters, mix letters, numbers, symbols
  • 🔒
    Never click links in unknown emails — this is "phishing"
  • 🔒
    Never download software from pop-up ads or random sites
  • 🔒
    Log out of accounts on shared or lab computers
  • 🔒
    Don't share your Gmail password with anyone — not even teachers
  • 🔒
    Enable 2-Step Verification on your Google Account
Professional Gmail Etiquette
  • ✓
    Always write a clear, specific Subject line — not "Hi" or "Query"
  • ✓
    Start with "Dear [Name]," or "Respected Sir/Ma'am,"
  • ✓
    Keep emails short — 3–5 paragraphs maximum
  • ✓
    End with "Regards," + your full name + phone number
  • ✓
    Use CC for people who need to know, BCC for bulk emails
  • ✓
    Reply within 24 hours — professional communication standard
Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Google Workspace · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Phase 1 — Design Theory & Visual Principles
Graphic Designing
Handout #05
Design Theory &
Visual Principles
Great design isn't accident — it follows rules. Master these fundamentals and your work will look professional from Day 1.
The 7 Principles of Design
Balance
Equal visual weight. Symmetrical (formal) or asymmetrical (dynamic).
Contrast
Difference creates interest. Dark/light, big/small, rough/smooth.
Emphasis
The focal point — the most important element should stand out most.
Movement
Guide the viewer's eye through the design in a deliberate path.
Pattern & Rhythm
Repetition of elements creates harmony and visual rhythm.
Unity & Variety
All elements feel they belong together, yet stay visually interesting.
Color Psychology
Red
Energy, urgency, passion
Blue
Trust, calm, professional
Yellow
Happiness, attention, warmth
Green
Nature, health, growth
Purple
Luxury, creativity, mystery
Orange
Fun, enthusiasm, energy
Navy
Authority, stability
Grey
Neutral, balance, modern
💡

CMYK = Print (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black)  |  RGB = Screen (Red, Green, Blue). Always check mode before starting a project!

Typography Rules
  • T
    Limit fonts to 2 per design — one display font + one body font
  • T
    Hierarchy: Heading > Subheading > Body — clear size difference between each
  • T
    Serif fonts (Times New Roman) = formal, print, traditional
  • T
    Sans-Serif (Arial, Helvetica) = modern, digital, clean
  • T
    Line spacing (leading) should be 120–150% of font size for readability
  • T
    Letter spacing (tracking): Increase for ALL CAPS headings — never for body text
GOOD FONT PAIRINGS
Playfair Display+ DM Sans
Montserrat+ Open Sans
Oswald+ Lato
Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Design Theory · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Phase 2 — Adobe Tools Quick Reference
Graphic Designing
Handout #06
Adobe Creative Suite
Quick Reference Guide
The three essential tools every professional graphic designer must master — know when to use each one.
🟦
Photoshop
RASTER / PIXELS
Best for: Photos, social media graphics, digital art, mockups, photo manipulation
Key Shortcuts
VMove Tool
BBrush Tool
TType Tool
Ctrl+JDuplicate Layer
Ctrl+TFree Transform
Ctrl+Alt+ZHistory Undo
File types: PSD (source), JPEG, PNG, TIFF
🟧
Illustrator
VECTOR / SCALABLE
Best for: Logos, icons, illustrations, business cards, any print design that must scale
Key Shortcuts
PPen Tool (master this!)
VSelection Tool
ADirect Selection
Shift+MShapebuilder Tool
Ctrl+GGroup Objects
Ctrl+Shift+OOutline Text
File types: AI (source), SVG, EPS, PDF
🟪
InDesign
LAYOUT / MULTI-PAGE
Best for: Brochures, magazines, books, multi-page documents, eBooks, catalogs
Key Shortcuts
FFrame Tool
TType Tool
Ctrl+DPlace Image
WPreview Mode
Ctrl+Shift+DText Frame Options
Ctrl+EExport PDF
File types: INDD (source), IDML, PDF
🎯

When to use which tool: Client wants a logo? → Illustrator. Client wants photo editing or Instagram post? → Photoshop. Client wants a 10-page brochure? → InDesign. Quick social media content in 10 min? → Canva.

🖊️ The Pen Tool — Most Important Skill
The Pen Tool in Illustrator creates anchor points connected by paths — it's how every professional logo is built. Practice daily: trace simple shapes (circle, arrow, leaf) until it feels natural. This skill separates beginners from professionals.
📐 Vector vs Raster — Know the Difference
Vector (Illustrator): Made of math. Scale to any size — billboard to stamp — without losing quality. Raster (Photoshop): Made of pixels. Enlarging causes blur/pixelation. Always start logos in Illustrator, never Photoshop.
Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Adobe Tools Reference · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Phase 3 — Branding & Identity Workflow
Graphic Designing
Handout #07
Branding & Identity
Workflow Template
Follow this professional process for every branding project — from first client call to final file delivery.
The Professional Branding Process
1
Discovery & Brief
Ask client: What does your business do? Who is your audience? What feeling should the brand give? What colors do you like/dislike? Who are your competitors? Get answers in writing.
Done ✓
2
Research & Mood Board
Study 3–5 competitors. Collect 10–15 reference images on Pinterest. Create a mood board in Canva or Photoshop showing the visual direction before designing.
Done ✓
3
Sketch 10 Logo Concepts (on paper)
Never open software first. Sketch 10 rough ideas by hand in 20 minutes. Pick the best 3. The goal is speed and quantity — not perfection at this stage.
Done ✓
4
Digitize in Illustrator
Build the top 2–3 concepts in Illustrator. Work in black & white first — a good logo works without color. Then apply color palette. Create horizontal, stacked, and icon-only versions.
Done ✓
5
Present to Client
Show mockups (business card, signage, t-shirt) — not just the logo on white background. Present max 3 concepts. Explain your reasoning for each choice. Collect feedback in writing.
Done ✓
6
Revise & Finalize
Apply feedback (max 2 revision rounds per agreement). Get written approval before final delivery. Never start new work without written sign-off on the previous stage.
Done ✓
7
Deliver Files + Brand Guide
Provide: AI (editable), EPS (print), SVG (web), PNG transparent background (4 sizes), PDF brand guide with colors (HEX/CMYK), fonts used, usage rules (minimum size, spacing, don'ts).
Done ✓
Brand Style Guide Checklist
  • □
    Logo (all versions: full, stacked, icon, reversed)
  • □
    Primary + secondary color palette (HEX, RGB, CMYK values)
  • □
    Typography (heading font + body font + sizes)
  • □
    Clear space rules (minimum breathing room around logo)
  • □
    Logo don'ts (no stretching, no recoloring, no shadows)
  • □
    Brand voice & tone guidelines
  • □
    Imagery style (photography style, icons, illustrations)
What Makes a Good Logo
  • ✓
    Simple — Recognizable at a glance, even at small size
  • ✓
    Memorable — Distinctive enough to stick in memory after one look
  • ✓
    Versatile — Works on dark/light backgrounds, small/large sizes
  • ✓
    Timeless — Avoid trendy styles that will look outdated in 5 years
  • ✓
    Appropriate — Matches the industry and target audience of the brand
❌

Never do this: Don't use clip art, stock icons, or copy another logo. Don't use more than 3 colors. Don't use Papyrus or Comic Sans fonts. Don't add drop shadows to logos.

Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Branding Workflow · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Phase 4 — Freelancing & Earning Online
Graphic Designing
Handout #08
Freelancing & Earning
Online — Action Plan
Step-by-step guide to launching your freelancing career on Fiverr and Upwork — from profile setup to receiving your first payment.
Fiverr Profile Setup Checklist
  • □
    Professional profile photo (white background, clear face, formal look)
  • □
    Compelling bio — mention your skills, experience, and what problems you solve
  • □
    Add your portfolio (minimum 5 strong work samples)
  • □
    Create 3 gig packages: Basic / Standard / Premium — clearly priced
  • □
    Write gig description with keywords buyers actually search for
  • □
    Add gig FAQ — answer common client questions upfront
  • □
    Set realistic delivery time — 3–5 days for beginners (not 1 day)
  • □
    Add skills and language proficiency to profile
How to Get Your First Client
  • 1
    Offer 3–5 free or discounted projects to build reviews and portfolio. Post in local WhatsApp groups.
  • 2
    Share your gig link on Facebook, WhatsApp groups, Instagram — every day for 30 days.
  • 3
    Respond fast — Fiverr algorithm favors sellers with fast response time (under 1 hour).
  • 4
    Deliver on time, every time — Late delivery destroys your ranking permanently.
  • 5
    Ask for 5-star reviews politely after every successful delivery.
Pricing Guide for Pakistani Graphic Designers
ServiceBeginner RateMid-Level RateAdvanced RatePlatform
Simple Logo$5–$15$25–$50$75–$200+Fiverr
Brand Identity Kit$20–$40$75–$150$200–$500Fiverr/Upwork
Social Media Post$3–$8$10–$25$30–$60Fiverr
Monthly SM Package (30 posts)$50–$80$100–$200$250–$500Direct/Upwork
Brochure / Flyer$10–$20$30–$60$80–$150Fiverr/Upwork
Business Card$5–$10$15–$30$40–$80Fiverr
💳

Getting Paid: Fiverr pays via Payoneer (linked to JazzCash/Easypaisa/Bank). Upwork via Payoneer or direct bank transfer. Setup Payoneer account before your first order.

📈

Growth Target: Month 1–2: Get 5 reviews. Month 3: Raise prices 30%. Month 6: Apply for Level 1 Seller badge. Month 12: Rs. 50,000–100,000/month target.

🤖

AI in Design: Use Midjourney/Adobe Firefly for inspiration and mockup backgrounds. Use ChatGPT to write gig descriptions. AI speeds you up — it does not replace your skills.

Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Freelancing Guide · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Professional Workflow & Client Communication
Graphic Designing
Handout #09
Professional Workflow
& Client Communication
The design process from client brief to final delivery — templates you can use on every single project.
Client Brief Template
QUESTIONS TO ASK EVERY CLIENT
Q1.
What is your business/product name and what do you do?
Q2.
Who is your target audience? (age, gender, location)
Q3.
What feeling should the design give? (modern, traditional, playful, luxury…)
Q4.
Do you have preferred colors, or colors to avoid?
Q5.
Share 3 examples of designs you like (from competitors or other industries)
Q6.
What is your deadline? What is your budget?
Q7.
Where will this design be used? (print, digital, both)
Professional Message Templates
✅ When client places order:
"Thank you for your order! I have received your requirements and will start working on it right away. I may reach out if I need any additional information. You can expect the first draft within [X] days."
📤 When delivering work:
"Hello! Here is the first draft of your [logo/design]. Please review and let me know your feedback. Included files: [list]. I'm happy to make revisions to ensure you are 100% satisfied."
⭐ Requesting a review (after delivery):
"I'm glad you're happy with the design! If you have a moment, a positive review on Fiverr would mean a lot and helps other clients find my work. Thank you for your business!"
File Delivery Checklist — Never Deliver Without This
LOGO PROJECT
  • □
    AI file (editable source)
  • □
    SVG (scalable web version)
  • □
    EPS (print-ready vector)
  • □
    PNG transparent (4 sizes)
  • □
    PDF (color + black & white)
  • □
    Color codes (HEX + CMYK)
SOCIAL MEDIA POST
  • □
    JPG (high quality, 300dpi)
  • □
    PNG (if transparent needed)
  • □
    Correct size (1080×1080px FB)
  • □
    Story version (1080×1920px)
  • □
    PSD or AI source file
  • □
    Canva share link (if Canva)
PRINT DESIGN
  • □
    PDF with 3mm bleed
  • □
    CMYK color mode
  • □
    Fonts outlined (no missing fonts)
  • □
    300 DPI resolution minimum
  • □
    Correct dimensions confirmed
  • □
    Images embedded (not linked)
⭐

Golden Rule of Freelancing: Under-promise and over-deliver. If you can finish in 2 days, tell the client 4 days. Delivering early surprises them positively. Delivering late damages your reputation permanently. Your reputation is your most valuable asset.

Nadir Academy · academy.nadireskills.com · 0546-598023 Professional Workflow · Page 1/1
NADIR ACADEMY
Print Production — Sizes, Specs & File Setup
Graphic Designing
Handout #10
Print Production
Sizes, Specs & File Setup
Every professional designer must know these standard sizes and setup rules before sending files to any print shop.
Standard Print Sizes (Pakistan)
ItemSize (mm)Size (inches)
Business Card90 × 54 mm3.5 × 2"
A4 Flyer / Letterhead210 × 297 mm8.27 × 11.7"
A5 Flyer / Brochure148 × 210 mm5.83 × 8.27"
A3 Poster297 × 420 mm11.7 × 16.5"
Banner (Standard)3ft × 6ft36" × 72"
Billboard8ft × 4ft96" × 48"
Wedding Card5" × 7"127 × 178 mm
Envelope (C5)162 × 229 mm6.4 × 9"
Social Media Sizes (2025)
PlatformPostStory/Reel
Facebook1200 × 630 px1080 × 1920 px
Instagram1080 × 1080 px1080 × 1920 px
YouTube Thumbnail1280 × 720 px—
TikTok Video1080 × 1920 px—
LinkedIn Post1200 × 628 px—
Twitter/X1600 × 900 px—
WhatsApp DP500 × 500 px—
Critical Print Setup Rules
📏
Add 3mm Bleed
Extend background color 3mm beyond the trim edge. Prevents white borders when printer cuts. Always add bleed for any cut print job.
🔒
Keep Safe Zone 4mm
Keep all important text and logos 4mm inside the trim edge. Anything in the danger zone may get cut. Never put text right at the edge.
🎨
CMYK Color Mode
Always switch to CMYK before sending to print. RGB looks different when printed. Set in Illustrator: File → Document Color Mode → CMYK.
Paper Weight Guide
Weight (GSM)Best Used For
70–80 GSMLetterhead, copy paper, handouts
100–130 GSMBrochures, flyers, catalogues
250–350 GSMBusiness cards, postcards, covers
400+ GSMPremium invitations, thick cards
Print Finishes to Know
  • ★
    Matte Lamination — Non-glossy, premium feel, avoids fingerprints
  • ★
    Gloss Lamination — Shiny, vivid colors, cheaper, most common
  • ★
    Spot UV — Glossy coating on selected areas only — very premium look
  • ★
    Embossing — Raised 3D effect on logo or text — luxury brands
  • ★
    Soft Touch — Velvet-like coating — highest end packaging and cards
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