Basics of Design: Layout & Typography for Beginners

by Lisa Graham

This classic introduction to high-impact page design is now fully updated for a new generation of designers. Basics of Design: Layout and Typography for Beginners demystifies the design process with straightforward and complete explanations of the fundamental principles that create first-rate visual design. Readers learn essential design terminology and develop their knowledge and skills through visual examples and hands-on activities that reinforce page layout and typography concepts. Side-by-side critiques of before-and-after page layouts help readers understand how to apply design principles to their own efforts and point the way to excellence in design.

Genres: Design, Nonfiction, Reference

336 pages, Paperback

First published May 21, 2001

Reviews

[James Ng · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy read introducing the basics in designing items from business stationery sets to banners and posters. It gives clear explanations on the origins and usages of fonts and visual elements such as images. Included are numerous examples and exercises to review and appreciate the topics. The author also provide point-by-point guidelines for novice designers; especially useful for not-so-creative content creators to start.

[Quyen Do · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely helpful

[Heather Still · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book and a few others on typography in my local library, but this was by far the most helpful. I took six pages of notes!

[Jay Rivera · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good ideas, a well-planned, well executed read from someone with a lot of experience in design and teaching design. Some of the information is a bit dated, like this advice on designing stationery sets (letterheads, envelopes, business cards): "Depending on the company, the business card may also contain some or all of the following information: The individuals voice mail, cell phone and and/ or beeper number." That made me guffaw as I tried to remember the last person I knew who had a beeper. It's a good book and worthy of your time if you are a beginning design student.

[Sebah Al-Ali · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Using emphasis in your pages simplifies the reader's task and helps him or her pick out the essentials in your message faster than having to wade through nonemphasized info."


"The principle of emphasis states that the most important element on the page should be most prominent."

[Katherine]

I bought this book two years ago and am now just getting to it. I am wanting to learn more about layout and design. This book looked easy to understand yet full of great examples and information.

[Davey · Rating 3 out of 5]

The examples are mediocre, but the elements are timeless and helpful. I was informed the author also had to design everything, which is why it is not the best quality. Still, good for the price.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good, solid, basic introduction to design.