To design a garden it is necessary to play with the the forces of nature, and work in harmony with a particular site. It takes time and effort to observe a place, and gradually learn its temperament and feel. Here are some notes on what to look for:
Signs of water!
Where is the light?
Thar she blows!!!
Who’s got the dirt on this story?
Dont’s forget the lines!
Mission Azul 
Ha! Love this! Am studying a similar course and am also a visual learner 🙂