Typography - Task 02

 30.10.2023 - 10.11.2023 

(Week 6 - Week 7) [Deadline : Week 8]
Edita Chew En Thung / 0357357 
Typography / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylor's University

Task 2 / Typographic Exploration & Communication (Text Formatting and Expression)

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Table of Contents

1. LECTURES

2. INSTRUCTIONS

3. PROCESS WORK

      i.  RESEARCH

      ii.  IDEATION

      iii. FINAL

4. FEEDBACK

5. REFLECTION

6. FURTHER READING

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LECTURES

Week 5

Our lecturer briefed us on our Task 2 and how to go about the exercise. Then we were to watch the videos provided in the lecturer's youtube channel's playlist to exercise the task given. To apply them within the task with our own design sense on layout and typography

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INSTRUCTIONS

Module Information Booklet [MIB] Typography

Week 6

We were instructed to update our Task 2 e-portfolio and all the necessary progress and feedbacks into our blog and record them down specifically for this task. Rearranging the layout and planning the way how the heading should be designed.

PROCESS WORK

I started out with a simple sketch of the layouts trial and error. The idea was to not have a complex layout for the readers to read efficiently.

I started to list down the DON'Ts of typography in formatting layout:

Overcrowding Text: Avoid cramming too much text into a limited space. Overcrowded text can be challenging to read and overwhelming for the reader.

Inconsistent Leading: Leading refers to the spacing between lines of text. Inconsistent leading can disturb the flow of your text. Ensure that the leading is balanced throughout your document, especially when working with long paragraphs.

Overusing Fonts: Limit the number of fonts in my layout. Using too many fonts can create a chaotic and unprofessional look. Stick to some typefaces for my design to keep consistency.

Ignoring Hierarchy: Typography should convey hierarchy within your content. Avoid using the same font size and style for all text elements. To create distinctions between headings, subheadings, and body text using the font size, weight, and style variations.

Improper Kerning: Kerning is the adjustment of space between individual characters. Avoid irregular or inconsistent kerning, as it can lead to awkward spacing and disrupt the text's flow. I tend to check and adjust the kerning if needed.

Widows and Orphans: Widows are lone words or short lines at the end of a paragraph, while orphans are the same but at the beginning of a paragraph. These disrupt the visual flow and readability of your text. Adjust my layout to avoid these mistakes.

Inadequate Margins: Insufficient margins can make a design feel cramped and unprofessional. I must ensure it has enough space between the text and the page edges to give the layout a polished look.

Inconsistent Alignment: Inconsistent text alignment (e.g. left-align for one paragraph and center-align for another) can be distracting. Choose a consistent alignment style throughout your document.

Ignoring Widow and Orphan Controls: In InDesign, you can enable Widow and Orphan controls in the Paragraph panel. These options help prevent single lines or words from appearing at the top or bottom of a column or page.

Neglecting Readability: What I've learned was to always prioritise readability. Avoid using decorative or overly stylised fonts that can be difficult to read, especially for longer bodies of text.

Inconsistent Text Sizes: Maintain consistency in text sizes for similar elements throughout your document. Avoid using varying font sizes for the same type of content.

Inadequate Proofreading: Always proofread your text for spelling and grammar errors.

I started to sketch out 3 simple formats at the following image below, I then liked the 2nd format better in terms of layout. I begin to ideate different variations of the text format.

Fig 1.0 Sketch of format 01/11/2023

Research

Source for files: click here & here

I was inspired by a more minimalistic layout as it catches the eye of the public for it's simplicity. Its simplistic design gives a sense of classical elements in it as it's basic yet alluring in it's own way. To not overcomplicate things, I try to approach a more minimal design layout for this exercise task.

Minimalism in typography, is like learning to create text-based designs that are simple yet powerful. It's about using typefaces, letters, and words in a way that conveys a message with elegance and efficiency. Here's how I visualised the process work to achieve minimalism in typography:

Font Selection: The process starts with choosing the right typeface (font). A minimalist design often involves clean, sans-serif fonts like Helvetica or Arial, but I chose Futura.

Whitespace: Minimalism in typography emphasises generous use of whitespace (blank areas). I should spend some time to experiment with different layouts and spacings to create a harmonious balance between text and space. This could involve adjusting line spacing (leading), letter spacing (kerning), and margins.

Limited Colours: A minimalist approach often involves a limited colour palette and we are allowed with only black and white tones including grey. In this case I work with a restricted set of gradients, to keep the design simple and uncluttered.

Hierarchy: Establishing a clear hierarchy of information in text is crucial for formatting. We would learn to differentiate between headings, subheadings, and body text using font sizes, weights, and styles. This ensures that the viewer or reader to know where to focus their attention on.

Alignment and Grids: Aligning text elements to a grid is a fundamental part of minimalism. I try to apply practice using grids to create a structured and organised layout.

Content Editing: The distinct part of minimalistic typography is editing the content itself. To condense text, eliminate unnecessary words, and focus on the core message to achieve simplicity.

Consistency: Consistency is key in minimalism. We should maintain uniformity balance in font choices, spacing, and other typographic elements throughout the design.

Experimentation: As a student, experimentation is encouraged. Trying out different combinations of fonts, sizes, and layouts can lead to unexpected but effective results.

Feedback and Iteration: The design process often involves seeking feedback from peers and instructors. Receiving critiques and making iterative improvements is an integral part of the learning process.

Research and Inspiration: Students should also study minimalist typography examples from professional designers and typographers. Analysing real-world designs can provide inspiration and insights into best practices.

Ideation

The heading for the text I chose is "A Code To Build On and Live By" so I decided to incorporate codes in html to the text. eg. "< >"

Typographic Emphasis: using "< >"

Fig 1.1 Sketch of format 03/11/2023

Fig 1.2 Sketch of format 04/11/2023

Then I started out to brainstorm a few ideas regarding the layout of the heading as I digitalise them into 4 different types to choose from.

Fig 1.3 Sketch of format 06/11/2023

Then I finally decided on the third design which is this one and added more numerous coding to the sides to look more fuller and is part of the design meaning itself. 

1. Hierarchy and Readability:

2. Use <h1>, <h2>, etc., to denote the hierarchy of information, showcasing the importance of content structure in achieving good reading rhythm.

3. 
   

4. Color and Visual Impact:

5. Employ <span> to emphasise the role of colour in design.

Then, the line was extended for the "N" in the word ON would be on top of the line standing on it.

Fig 1.4 Sketch of format 06/11/2023

To make it more visually pleasing while still maintaining it's meaning and depth, I reflected the word "N" and make it join and stand together with the line. The meaning is rather simple to understand, build "on" and live by, walk on a road and principles you live by.

FINAL : TASK 2

PDF final with Grids (exported in 300 ppi)

PDF final without Grids (exported 300 ppi)

JPG FINAL without Grids (exported 300 ppi)

JPG FINAL without Grids (exported 300 ppi)

Date created : 06/11/2023

All files including JPG with & without grids are HERE

HEAD

Font/s: Futura condensed medium

Type Size/s:  68.32 pt

Leading: 79.99 pt

Paragraph spacing: 0mm

BODY

Font/s: Adobe Casion Pro

Type Size/s: 10 pt

Leading: 12 pt

Paragraph spacing: 1mm

Characters per-line: 56~68

Alignment: Top

Margins: 10 mm top,  10 mm left + 10 mm right + 10 mm bottom

Columns: 2

Gutter: 5 mm

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FEEDBACK

Week 6

General feedback: Avoid over-crowding Specific feedback: Try minimalizing the work and add some in the process to not look squeezed and too less at the same time.

Week 7

General feedback: Don't use too much graphical elements and too much white space. Express the meaning instead of acting on impulse

Specific feedback: Try not to use the horizontal/upside down format for the text layout, it is acceptable but not every setting can use this concept.

REFLECTION

Experience (skills & outcome):

In my typography class, I delved into two key aspects that significantly impact effective design: the utilization of grids, layouts, and page flow, and the application of essential skills for successful typographic communication.

Secondly, I acquired crucial skills for effective typographic communication. This involved mastering typography principles such as typefaces, hierarchy, spacing, and alignment to create visually engaging and readable designs. Developing a good reading rhythm was emphasized, enabling me to control the pace at which viewers absorb information. Moreover, I learned the importance of creating memorable typographic designs that leave a lasting impression on the audience.

Observations (applying skills to use):

Firstly, we explored the significance of grids, layouts, and page flow in design. Understanding these elements allows for structured and organised compositions. Grids serve as a framework, guiding the placement of content elements within a design. By learning about various grid systems and their applications, I gained insights into creating visually appealing layouts while maintaining consistency and balance. The study of page flow helped me comprehend how readers navigate through visual content, ensuring a natural and logical progression of information. With these, I started to understand more of the use of grids, customising the layouts and page flow by using the knowledge gained from the lectures. The use of Adobe Indesign and the overall arrangement as such. 

By combining my understanding of grids, layouts, and page flow with the skills acquired for effective typographic communication, I gained the ability to design compositions that not only look aesthetically pleasing but also effectively convey messages. This knowledge has equipped me to create designs with a clear visual hierarchy, ensuring readability and memorability. Understanding the interplay between these elements has been instrumental in my journey towards becoming a proficient and mindful typographer, capable of producing impactful and communicative designs.

That's how I learned to apply the necessary skills and sensibilities for a much more effective and efficient typographic communication to achieve good reading rhythm for the readers or viewers to experience with some sort of memorability. The impact is what gives the reader the urge to read more as they say.

FURTHER READING

Just My type by Simon Garfield

Just My Type talks and discuss a lot of the modern mysteries of typography. It is a popular science book that explores the world of fonts and typography. The book dives into the history, psychology, and cultural significance of fonts and their impact on our daily lives. The book takes readers on a journey through the evolution of typefaces, from Gutenberg's printing press to the digital age, discussing the people, events, and innovations that shaped the way we perceive and use fonts.

It discusses what inspires the seemingly ubiquitous use of Trajan on bad movie posters, what makes a font look seemingly presidential. Throughout the book, he explains his insights into the design principles behind different typefaces, the role of typography in advertising and branding, and how fonts can convey emotions and messages. He also discusses the work of prominent typographers and designers and the controversies and debates within the world of typography.

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LINK TO OTHER TASKS

TASK 03