Lesson Overview

A logo is the visual mark people use to recognise your business. It does not need to be complicated. In fact, the best small business logos are usually simple, easy to read, and easy to use in many places.

This lesson will help you understand what makes a strong logo and how to design one that supports your brand.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the purpose of a business logo.
• Identify the main parts of a logo.
• Choose logo colours, fonts, and symbols carefully.
• Avoid common logo design mistakes.
• Create a logo that works online and in print.

What Makes a Good Logo?

Main Parts of a Logo

• Business name: The main text in your logo.
• Symbol or icon: A simple image or shape that represents the business.
• Colours: The brand colours customers will recognise.
• Font: The style of writing used for the business name.
• Tagline: An optional short phrase that explains what you do.

Step-by-Step: Designing Your Logo

Step 1: Start With Your Business Name

Make sure your business name is clear and easy to read. Avoid using fonts that are too fancy or difficult to understand.

Step 2: Choose a Simple Symbol

A symbol can help people recognise your business quickly. Choose something connected to your service, location, or business personality.

Step 3: Select Two or Three Colours

Choose colours that match your brand. Use them consistently on your website, Facebook page, signs, and printed material.

Step 4: Choose a Readable Font

Your logo font should match the feel of your business. A professional business may use a clean bold font. A creative business may use something more artistic, but it still must be readable.

Step 5: Test the Logo at Small Size

Check whether your logo is still clear when it appears as a small Facebook profile image or website icon.

Step 6: Create Different Versions

It is useful to have a full logo, a square version, a black-and-white version, and a transparent-background version.

Logo Versions You Should Create

• Full logo: Business name plus symbol.
• Square logo: Best for Facebook profile image and website icons.
• Transparent logo: Works over different backgrounds.
• Black-and-white logo: Useful for documents, invoices, and printing.
• Small icon: A simple symbol that still works when tiny.

Common Logo Design Mistakes

• Using too many colours.
• Using a font that is hard to read.
• Making the logo too detailed.
• Copying another business logo too closely.
• Using low-quality or blurry images.
• Forgetting to test the logo on a phone screen.
• Only making one version of the logo.

Logo Design Checklist

• The logo is simple.
• The business name is easy to read.
• The logo matches the business style.
• The colours match the brand.
• The logo works on a phone screen.
• The logo works on a white background.
• The logo works on a dark background.
• A transparent-background version has been saved.
• A square version has been created.
• A black-and-white version has been created.

Practical Project

Create a simple logo concept for your business. Include your business name, one symbol or icon, two main colours, and one readable font. Then test the logo as a small image to see if it still looks clear.

Next Lesson

After creating your logo, the next step is to choose brand colours and fonts that keep your business looking consistent.