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Thinking With Type

summary ofThinking With TypeBook by Ellen Lupton

13 min
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You’ll learn

  • How typography shapes perception
  • The art of choosing the right typeface
  • Secrets behind effective kerning
  • Why less is often more in design

first KEY POINT

Typography adds meaning to visual content

Typography is not a subject with many books dedicated to it because much of it is taught in college, online, and learned by practice. However, for graphic designers wanting to hone their work to the highest possible level, understanding the smaller details is key. Not understanding the finer points of spacing, choosing the right type font, and how these relate to spaces around the words can make your work look slightly ‘off.’ This might not be glaringly obvious to a reader, but when adorning large banners for advertising, small mistakes can stand out.

Typography is a complicated subject that requires attention to detail. Small mistakes can take the meaning of a block of text and reduce its effects.

Ellen Lupton was annoyed at the lack of suitable books on the subject of typography. For a long time, she searched for the ideal choice, something small enough to digest easily but containing enough information to be worthwhile. In the end, she decided to create that book herself, having failed in her mission to find it elsewhere.Focusing upon the rules of typography, with creative license thrown in for good measure, Thinking in Type is also about why typography is structured in the way it is and not merely stating the rules. The bottom line is that when typography is used in a creative and sensible way, it adds value to the words and gives them structure, allowing the meaning to be conveyed in a more concise and impactful manner.

Using the rules of typography to great effect can have a significant impact on a message.

second KEY POINT

A letter is never just a letter

Typography allows you to arrange words and blocks of text in a way that not only looks pleasing to the eye but also conveys a message in the right way. Choosing the right fonts can add more impact, but the wrong font can turn a serious message into something entirely comical. For this reason, typography as a whole isn’t just about choosing the right font; it’s also about knowing the rules that allow you to use fonts in the right way. For that reason, one letter is never insignificant; it’s part of the puzzle.

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first KEY POINT

Understanding the history of typeface

second KEY POINT

Font size is a key decision for designers

third KEY POINT

Add capitals with caution to avoid scale issues

fourth KEY POINT

Expand your font library for more options

fifth KEY POINT

Text positioning is more in-depth than you may realize

sixth KEY POINT

The importance of proofreading to ensure great quality work

seventh KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Ellen Lupton is a prominent figure in graphic design and typography. She is a curator, designer, writer, and educator known for her work in design theory.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Thinking With Type: A Critical Guide For Designers, Writers, Editors, & Students about?

Thinking With Type: A Critical Guide For Designers, Writers, Editors, & Students, authored by Ellen Lupton, explores the principles of typography and its impact on visual communication. This comprehensive guide covers design methods that enhance readability and convey meaning effectively.

What are the key takeaways from Thinking With Type: A Critical Guide For Designers, Writers, Editors, & Students?

Key takeaways from Thinking With Type include the importance of font selection, spacing, and layout in creating effective designs. Readers will also gain insights on how typography influences audience perception and how to apply these principles in various writing and editing contexts.

Is Thinking With Type: A Critical Guide For Designers, Writers, Editors, & Students worth reading?

Absolutely, Thinking With Type is worth reading for anyone interested in design, writing, or editing. Its practical insights and engaging format make it a valuable resource for beginners and professionals alike.

How many pages is Thinking With Type: A Critical Guide For Designers, Writers, Editors, & Students and when was it published?

Thinking With Type consists of 224 pages and was published in 2010. This length makes it a manageable read for those looking to enhance their understanding of typography.

Who is the author of Thinking With Type: A Critical Guide For Designers, Writers, Editors, & Students?

The author of Thinking With Type is Ellen Lupton, a renowned designer and author known for her expertise in design education and typography. Her deep knowledge and practical approach contribute to the book's authority in the field.