Questions about Typography

_ What are the advantages of a multiple column grid?

            Multiple column grids allow for more flexibility in spreads, as one can create different zones for different kinds of content, text and images can spread over one or multiple columns, and not all the space has to be filled.

_ How many characters is optimal for a line length? Words per line?

            Optimal line length is 50-60 characters, or 12 words.

_ Why is the baseline grid used in design?

            The baseline grid anchors nearly all layouts to a common rhythm.

_ What are reasons to set type justified? Ragged (unjustified)?

            Justified type creates a clean shape on the page and uses space efficiently, whereas ragged type allows for a random, natural edge.

_ What is a typographic river?

            A typographic river is a set of spaces that connect vertically in a body of justified text to create an unnatural, unintended river-like shape.

_ What does clothesline, hang line or flow line mean?

            A hang line is a horizontal line that divides a page into different spatial areas and creates alignment points for the placement of text and images.

_ What is type color/texture mean?

            Type color, also called type texture, is the appearance of the type based upon its weight or boldness.

_ How does x-height effect type color?

            X-height can make a type heavier if it’s taller, or lighter if it’s shorter because of the space that it allows to the ascenders.

_ What are some ways to indicate a new paragraph. Are there any rules?

            An indent, line break, outdent, or symbol can indicate a new paragraph. Avoid an indent on the very first line of a body of text.