Typography is no longer the specialist domain of the typesetter: these days anyone who uses a computer has access to a wide range of typefaces and effects. This book offers an introduction to the basics of typography, from choosing which typeface to use and how to combine different typefaces in one document to adjusting letter-, line- and word-spacing for improved legibility; and from understanding kerning and leading to mastering typographic details, such as italics, punctuation and line endings. The book is illustrated throughout with practical examples demonstrating good and bad solutions. There are tips for specific design tasks, such as letters, charts, tables and design for the screen, and a glossary explaining typographic terms.

Victoria Squire is senior lecturer and course leader of the BA Hons Design: Graphic Communication with Typography course at the University of Plymouth.