The How-to Project is a combination of research, semiotics, copyrighting, iconography, typography, and color. The goal of the project was to develop, refine, and create a visual tool that would communicate how to complete a task. 

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The task I chose was how to properly punch someone in the face (in self-defense). 

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In the beginning, I struggled with the execution of this project. It wasn’t until I came across “Pocket Guide on Voting,” an outreach initiative that Columbia Votes (an organization within Columbia College) was doing, that the idea suddenly struck me: The Pocketbook Series.

I essentially created a brand, pretending “How-to Punch Someone in the Face (in self-defense)” was the latest installment and designed my form to be engaging and, most importantly, portable; the pocketbook is 2 x 4 in. This was important to me because I wanted for the pocketbook to be able to fit in purses, wallets, pockets---any reachable place for quick access. Danger is everywhere, after all, and no one is carrying a 8 x 11 booklet. 

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My professor offered up a challenge however: What if I don't have time to check the booklet as a sketchy person approaches me? I then created stickers showcasing the most important info that one can place on their hands and knuckles for an even easier visual. 

 

The poster in the back was something that came to me naturally as a fun addition for anyone to place on their wall. It is a brand in the end. 

 

And if you're curious about the QR code, it links a mockup of a website I created for the pocketbook series. Even after I thought I was set and done, my professor offered up another challenge: What else can you add? What else indeed. What could I add to this? 

Well, if my main thing revolved punching, then I should sell rings for an extra layer of protection. 

Here is the website if you're curious: https://shop-pacifist.webflow.io