For quite some time, I have been troubled by a certain inquiry - with the abundance of web design courses available, is it feasible to educate novices on creating visually appealing designs? While a foundation of theoretical knowledge evidently exists, could those who lacked drawing skills in school ever hope to master web design? Additionally, does utilizing a software that constructs websites through pre-made templates qualify as genuine web design?

On a personal note, I believe that while natural artistic talent can certainly aid in the process of web design, it is ultimately a skill that can be acquired through diligent effort and practice. It is important for beginners to start with a strong understanding of the basics and gradually work towards mastering more nuanced techniques. As for utilizing template-based website creators, while they may offer convenience, they can also limit creativity and ultimately result in generic, uninspired designs.

Primarily, a web designer is an interface designer whose task is to create websites that are not only visually appealing but also user-friendly. While drawing is not necessarily a crucial skill in this field, the success of a website rests on the ability to tell a story and convey meaning to the viewer. Therefore, a web designer must possess the expertise to discern what message they aim to communicate through their website, and how best to emphasize it.

In my opinion, storytelling is an essential aspect of effective web design. A well-designed website has the power to engage the viewer on an emotional level, leaving a lasting impression and encouraging them to return. As such, web designers should prioritize creating sites that not only look good but also effectively convey their intended message.

No, when you "compose" a site from ready-made template blocks, this is NOT web design, this is a website builder. In fact, you "choose" a site for yourself from ready-made ones created by web designers.
Drawing on paper (tablet) by hand is a desirable skill, but not required. You can be a great web designer and not be able to draw with a pencil, let's say. But you can't do without perfect mastery of raster and vector graphics editors. As a rule, this is Photoshop and Illustrator (Corel Draw).
For a web designer, the most significant qualities are a sense of style, the ability to choose colors and a theme for a particular order. Also - ease of use (interface), this is no longer a matter of artistic meaning, but of a technical one. Therefore, the profession of a web designer is a completely separate specialization, which only partially includes the skills of an artist.

There is a common misconception that web designers are simply artists who add visuals and decorations to a website. However, their role is much more than that. A web designer must have the ability to create aesthetically pleasing websites, as well as use data analysis to develop simple and user-friendly sites. Their focus is not solely on design, but also on analyzing user behavior and designing interfaces for various online platforms. The creative aspect of design has taken a backseat to functionality and usability. Web designers may also create templates for email newsletters or internet banners.

To begin a project, the designer must gather information from the client about the purpose and intended audience of the website. If the client is unsure, the designer will ask questions and record all necessary details in a brief. Using this information, the designer will then create prototypes and sketches of the website layout, typically using special programs or even pen and paper. These prototypes help the designer determine the best placement of elements on the site, which they will then present to the client for approval before beginning the actual site creation process.

Web design, much like any other skill, is a matter of learning and practice. Sure, having a natural artistic flair can expedite the process, but it's not a prerequisite. Remember, the internet is filled with stunning websites designed by folks who couldn't draw a straight line with a ruler. The key is understanding design principles, color theory, typography, and most importantly, user experience.

Now, let's talk about the theoretical knowledge foundation. It's true that there's a wealth of information out there, but it's also true that not all of it is created equal. Some courses are better than others, and some teachers are better than others. It's crucial to find a reliable source of learning, one that teaches not just the how, but also the why. Because understanding the reasoning behind design decisions is what separates a good web designer from a great one.

As for those who prefer to use software that constructs websites through pre-made templates, well, I say, more power to you. Templates can be a great starting point, especially for beginners. They allow you to focus on content and functionality without getting bogged down in the technicalities of design. However, and this is a big however, relying too heavily on templates can indeed stifle creativity and result in designs that are, well, generic.

Think about it, how many times have you seen a website and thought, "I've seen this before"? That's the danger of templates. They're designed to be user-friendly, but they're also designed to appeal to the widest audience possible. And that often means sacrificing originality for familiarity.

But here's the thing, even if you start with a template, you don't have to stick with it. Once you've got a handle on the basics, you can start to customize, to add your own unique touch. And that's where the real learning begins. That's where you start to understand what makes a design truly yours.
Can you learn web design even if you couldn't draw your way out of a paper bag? Absolutely. Will it take time and effort? You bet. And should you use templates? If it helps you get started, then yes, but don't be afraid to branch out once you're comfortable.