What is the 'Rule-of-Thirds'?

The 'rule-of-thirds' is the guideline which is applied to an image or any visual composition. It is the general rule-of-thumb that most of the professional photographers follow while composing or editing a picture. According to this rule an image is divided into nine equal parts by two equally-space horizontal lines and two equally-spaced vertical lines. As per the rule, the important elements of your image composition should be placed along these lines or at their intersections. It not just enhances the visual appeal but will also raise your standard as a photographer. The rule-of-thirds help you bring a balance in your composition. The rule of thirds says that, when you capture the horizon, it should either be placed on the top or the bottom line. Similarly, if you capture a vertical subject like a building or a tree, it should be placed on the left or right line. And the center of the subject should lie at the intersection of these horizontal and vertical lines. How would you photograph a person? A general tendency it to keep them in the center of your frame and shoot... right? But, according to rule of thirds it is not the correct way to shoot. Instead, you should line the body up to a vertical line (left or right) and the person's eyes to a horizontal line. It is a general skill which is developed by practice over the time. However, like we always say, there is no defined rule of photography. Just because you din't apply 'rule-of-thirds' doesn't mean that your picture is not worth. It all depends on your skills, knowledge and the creative eye that'll make the photo worth to look at.