Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Typography Post 1 - The Grid

What is the definition of a grid?
A grid breaks up space or time into regular units. The grid creates a backdrop for arranging the content and can be used for alignment and control of the space.

Why do we use a grid? What are the benefits or functions?
We use a grid for control. It allows the designer to bring a more rational approach to a blank piece of paper. The grid serves as a structured environment in which we put our design. The equally spaced lines and modules make it easy for us to align elements and create continuity or regularity.

What is a modular grid?
A modular grid has equally spaced horizontal and vertical lines that form square modules. These modules can have gutters between them for separation.

















Define and illustrate margins, columns, grid modules, flowlines, and gutter
Margins – the margin is the buffer between the grid and the edge of the page. It creates an empty border so that the content doesn’t go all the way to the edge
Columns – the vertical divisions in a grid
Grid Modules – the squares that are formed by the equally spaced horizontal and vertical lines in the grid
Flowlines – the horizontal and vertical lines
Gutter – the spaces between the individual modules

What is the definition of hierarchy?
Hierarchy is a logical and visual way to express relative importance of different text elements by providing a visual guide to their organization. It makes the layout clear and easier to digest.

What are ways to achieve a clear hierarchy?
Ways to achieve a clear hierarchy include: making the most important text bold, italic, larger, or just at the top or far left of the page. You can also surround text with a lot of white space to make the viewer’s eye see it first.

Define type family and type styles –
A type family includes a number of separate fonts including roman, bold, italic and at least one variant in weight, like bold. The family commonly shares the same proportion and width and is seen as part of the same face.

Type styles are the different styles of fonts, like sans serif or serif. Some styles have more flair and some are very plain.

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