Glencoe Desktop Publishing Design Tips

Keep it simple– less is more. For main headings, titles, headlines: Use bold or italics with a point of 18 or higher. Use all caps in headlines only. Do not use all caps with script font. Borders should not overpower. Use only 2 different fonts on a page. Add variety with point size and special effects. Contrast serif and sans serif fonts.

Design Tips Use the drawing/ shape tools to create your own art. Experiment even if you don’t think you draw well. Freehand cartoons are interesting and draw attention. Document drawings and design should reflect the mood/ theme of the document. Use color to add interest to the document. Choose colors that contrast.

Design Tips Use no more than 4 different colors on a page. Print on colored paper if there is not access to a color printer. The color red draws immediate attention. Use it carefully. Choose fill colors that allow the text to be read easily.

Design Tips Choose colors that highlight the theme of the document. Rotate or flip pictures to position them as desired. (Create a border.) Faces, children, and animals are designs that grab attention. Look through clip art, magazines, newspapers, etc. for design ideas. Use the group feature to move several drawings as one unit.