NAHS: INSTRUCTIONS: How to Organize Information

In this exercise, you will practice formatting to make information more clear. Use the file that was provided to you and follow the instructions for each section.

Below is some information to help you understand why organizing text by size and space makes your text easier to understand.

INTRODUCTION

In graphic design, the ability to communicate is essential. Just because something is legible, doesn't mean it communicates anything. It's not always about having great background or picking the "perfect" picture to put in your design either.

Look at the examples below. Look at how confusing the information is before it is formatted with sizing and spacing.

1. HIERARCHY

First, determine the HIERARCHY of your information. What is the most important bit of info? What is the least important? How would you rank everything in between? What bits of info have the same importance?

You can show HIERARCHY by using size, capitalization, and style (meaning bold, condensed, etc.)

2. PROXIMITY

Proximity in design has to do with how close objects are to one another. Objects that are closer appear more related. Also, objects that are further apart seem less related. You can use this concept to visually group bits of information.

To do this, you are going to need to control your LEADING. Leading is the SPACE BETWEEN YOUR LINES. Highlight and entire line of text -- including any spaces before/after -- and use the leading field in your character palette to control the space between your lines. If the lines are closer together, they are thought to have a stronger relationship. If lines are far apart, they are thought to have a weaker relationship. Line leading can be controlled in your Character Palette. See below.

3. REPETITION

You should repeat formatting (size, style, capitalization, & space) for similar items. Repetition will also help organize information.