Typographic Design: Form and Communication

by Rob Carter, Sandra Maxa, Mark Sanders

The bestselling introduction to designing the written word Typographic Form & Communication is the definitive reference for graphic designers, providing a comprehensive introduction to the visual word. Done well, typopgraphy can communicate so much more than the words themselves. Typographic design determines how you feel about a message, the associations you make, and ultimately, the overall success of the communication. Typographic design extends from the page to the screen, and is a critical element of almost any graphic design project. This book provides essential guidance on everything related to from letterforms and negative space, to messaging, processes, and history, aspiring designers will find great utility in mastering these critical concepts. This new seventh edition has been fully updated with new coverage of contemporary typography processes, updated case studies, and new examples from branding, print, web, motion, and more. On-screen typographic design concepts are discussed in greater detail, and the online supplemental materials include new flashcards, terminology and quizzes. The irony of typographic design is that, when done well, it often goes unnoticed―but its impact on a project’s overall success is undeniable. Typography can make or break a page, can enhance or overpower an image, and can obscure a message or bring it into sharp focus. It is one of the most powerful tools in the graphic designer’s arsenal, and Typographic Design is the complete, practical introduction.

Genres: Design, Art, Art Design, Nonfiction, Reference, Academic, Collections

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

About the author

Rob Carter (born 1949) is an American professor of typography and graphic design at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Reviews

[Marcia]

I was intrigued by the film "Helvetica" and decided to try one of MIT's free online courses http://tiny.cc/a4Xr0 "Fundamentals of Computational Media Design." This is the textbook. It's fascinating.

[Elizabeth]

I'm finding this to be really fascinating. It goes into depth no other typography 'manual' I've read has.

[Kn0thing]

A classic to be read and re-read. If you like this and are interested in the larger scope of graphic design, look for Megg's History of Graphic Design - the granddaddy textbook of graphic design.

[Dana]

I bought this book for a class on typography in college. It gives all the basic rules and information about typography which is very helpful for graphic designers or anyone else who wants to learn more about typography. Great book for reference!

[Hau Tran]

A much more in-depth look at typography. Currently reading, so I will have a better idea of how I like it when I finish it.

[Maggies Daisy]

Thought it was a very informative book on Typography.

[Marius Černuševičius]

The book is worth revisit and its plenty of useful information about typography.

[Collin]

This book changed my life.