The Craft of Words, Part One: Macrocopy

by The Standardistas

Look carefully and you'll notice that many of the most successful designs are built around words. Apple tantalises us with the ability to hold "1,000 songs in your pocket". MailChimp has created a wonderfully engaging brand, heavily focused around language.

Words lie at the heart of what we create as designers and an understanding of how they might be used will make you better at your craft. Just like an understanding of grid systems, colour theory and typography are essential for the practicing designer, we must take responsibility for the words that make up the content we shape.

In this book The Standardistas demonstrate how a respect for the craft of words can lead to better and more engaging user experiences and add an often overlooked, but important element, to your design toolbox.

Genres: Design, Writing

30 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 19, 2013

Reviews

[Mateus Pinheiro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pocket guides should presumably give just an overview of something, but this particular one does way more.

It gives a simple, buzzword-free explanation to defining tone and voice while writing copy and also a handful of books and links to continue studying.

If you're a designer, there's no excuse not to read this book.

[Lisa]

A brief and excellent guide to macrocopy, this book accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do. You'll leave it with a clear perspective on the relationship between word and image for products and brands, as well as a list of essential resources for further reading.

[Trevan Hetzel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read, but a good reminder that words play a huge part in the overall design of websites and applications. Setting a tone of voice is pretty much essential for brands these days to resonate with their users and leave a positive impression.

[Jason]

Excellent little book. Got me thinking about how fundamentally important crafting language is to design. Lots of great tips and references to external resources for further study.

[James Lacroix]

This is a fantastic short book packed full of insight, inspiration and information on the power of words and how to harness it.

[Lucas Cherkewski · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short, accessible, persuasive cry for designers to invest in the writing that makes up the essence of their field.

[Carys · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s really short and accessible which will be great for the future but it didn’t feel long enough for me to thoroughly enjoy it - ironic!