Your design portfolio is one of the most important things you can bring to an admissions interview with a design school -- it provides a first impression of your capabilities. There is no one right way of designing a portfolio because the medium you use and the content you include differs depending on to whom you are showing it. A portfolio for an interview setting and a portfolio presented online might contain different content, presented in different ways. Make sure your portfolio represents you as a designer and is a representation of your best work.
Medium
You might choose to create an online portfolio. This portfolio is good for an overseas institution who will be viewing your portfolio online, instead of in person. A leave-behind book is a better choice for a personal interview setting. That way, the design school can review your work in more detail after you leave to give them a better outlook on what you are capable of as a designer.
Quality of Work
Regardless of the medium of your portfolio (online or book format), it should only contain pieces that represent your highest caliber work. Your portfolio is your chance to shine --- you can shape the mind of a potential educator with the contents of your portfolio. Never put rough sketches or half-finished pieces into your portfolio to fill it up. Your portfolio is something you should be able to discuss with pride and should contain pieces you are proud to show off.
Scope of Skills
A design portfolio should contain a variety of projects displaying the scope of your skills. If you are applying for a job as a photographer, your portfolio might highlight your photographic capabilities, but it should also contain a few different projects to show your versatility as an artist. Showing a range of abilities makes you a more valuable asset because you are not limited to one department.
The "Wow" Factor
Your portfolio should stand out from the rest --- people should do a double-take when they first see it. This could mean creating an alluring website with stunning graphics or it could mean making a leave-behind book that is brightly colored, or organized in a special way. Use your best skills to make your design portfolio as physically attractive as it can be. Using colors, typography and layout skills will help you create a stunning portfolio.
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