Similarity

objects that share similar elements are seen as belonging together

color

shape

size

Nearness (Proximity)

objects that are nearby are seen as related

Uniform Connectedness

objects are seen as a single unit if they are connected to one another

overrules principle of similarity

overrules the principle of proximity

Continuity/Simplicity

people prefer continuity over discontinuity

Symmetry

objects grouped in terms of symmetrical, balanced

black objects grouped together

blue objects grouped together

Closure

familiar shapes are more readily seen as complete than incomplete

Figure/Ground

people see an object as separate from its surroundings (mouseover)

when it is unclear what is the figure and what is the ground we get an optical illusion

Simplicity

basic shapes and fewer (a) prefered over complicated and more (b)

Common Fate

objects moving in the same direction and at the same speed tend to be grouped together