Textual Elements of Design: Fonts, Typography, and Spacing (Coursera)

Textual Elements of Design: Fonts, Typography, and Spacing (Coursera)

Graphic design is telling a story by using both images and text. With that definition in mind, this course will focus on the textual elements of graphic design. From the history of typography, the difference between type, fonts and text as well as exposure to typography spacing, students will learn the value of selecting the best kind of type and combinations of fonts to get their message across in a visually pleasing manner.

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Course 3 of 4 in the Graphic Design Elements for Non-Designers Specialization.
What You Will Learn

  • Appreciate the history and future of typography as an artform.
  • Compare and contrast the similarities and nuances between the concepts of typography, fonts and text.
  • Work with the various aspects of spacing type, includingleading, kerning and tracking.

Syllabus

WEEK 1
History of Typography
This module will cover the history of typography, baseline basics and the anatomy of a typeface.

WEEK 2
Typography, Fonts and Text
This module will cover the two main types of fonts and font pairings and hierarchy.

WEEK 3
Typography Spacing & Sizing
This module will cover typographical spacing and sizing, as well as the concepts of alignment, leading, tracking and kerning.

WEEK 4
Design Programs and User Experience
This module will review using type in various computer design programs. You will also get a chance to practice your skills in designing a brochure or postcard, focusing on the use of type in your design.

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