INTRODUCTION

Typography is a constantly evolving discipline, and this book aims to provide a concise yet comprehensive overview of the information, vocabulary, tools, and methods used in effective typographic-design practice. Included in the following chapters are the history and anatomy of typography; principles of visual organization and legibility; a study of the intersection of form, meaning, and media; projects that explore a variety of contexts; and case studies devoted to traditional and nontraditional typographic design processes.

This book's sixth edition reflects a view of typography that transcends specific technologies or media. A knowledge of typographic fundamentals is key to communicating in all environments—static, dynamic, or kinetic—and the first few chapters address the basics of form, syntax, how type communicates, and its potential for expression. Current typographic design practice can be better understood if one understands the evolution of earlier typesetting processes, and Chapter 7 provides that background for new designers, many who will work primarily in digital environments. Chapters specific to on-screen and kinetic typography provide the designer with an expanded awareness of legibility factors and enable compelling new ways to communicate. Case studies in applied problem solving are meant to inspire and show readers how to use their newfound knowledge to communicate visually. Theoretical and structural problem-solving approaches, evolved by design educators, reinforce the underlying concepts in this book. An understanding of typographic classification and subtlety of form is gained from the study of type specimens.

Through the thirteen chapters of this book, the authors share a compilation of information and examples with practitioners and students. It yields both insights and inspiration, bringing order to the complex and diversified subject of typographic design.