Layout and Page Design Fundamentals
Layout and Page Design Fundamentals
Layout Process:
1. Fixing the page format (size)
2. Creating the document
3. Defining the type area
4. Fixing the design grid with text and stylistic elements
5. Make-up and final corrections
The Golden Section is a ratio which is evident throughout the universe as the number Phi and is also
related to Fibonacci Series. You can use this ratio to good effect in design by making sure that
elements of your grid conform to this ratio. Using the Golden Section can ensure a natural sense of
correct composition, even though it is based in mathematics it will ‘feel’ right.
There are a variety of design grids available decision on which one to use depends on your
publication’s needs. One of the most effective principles in grid design is called the Rule of Thirds,
also known as the golden grid rule. The Rule of Thirds is a technique which is applied by dividing a
space into thirds, both vertically and horizontally, creating a grid of rectangles. It’s a good place to
start
Examples:
Balance Line Length With Type Size. If the desired size of type and
the line length used in the page layout are incompatible, one of them needs
to change. Don't use your largest type on your shortest line.
Use All Caps Sparingly and Only With the Right Fonts . In print
and on the web, shouting is never worse than when it is done with all-
capped decorative or script typefaces. Even if you use a traditional font,
reading all caps is more difficult than reading uppercase and lowercase
text.
These rules are guidelines. In most cases, they help you improve your documents.
However, don't feel you have to follow them blindly. Sometimes a departure from
these guidelines is productive, but it should be deliberate.