Formal and Informal Page Layouts Formats for Designing

A page layout is an art of arranging or organizing text and images (illustrations, symbols, photographs etc.) on a page or pages to create a desired and pleasing effect. A well-designed page attracts the reader’s attention and presents the fabric in a straightforward to read fashion. Modern page layout offers the Graphic Designer with many options that make his/her work very attractive, effective and unique.

i. Formal / Symmetrical layout:

This is a format that is split into two equal parts to realize balance. It is achieved when an imaginary vertical centre line divides the layout and either side of it comprises an equal amount of copy text and illustrations. It expresses dignity and stability. The formatting “toolbar” on the pc has commands or operations which help designers in organizing their page layouts similar to in typesetting their work in keeping with specification. Examples are the Justified, Unjustified and Centered layouts.

• Justified: In this arrangement, all lines have the identical length and are aligned to form a straight line at each left and right or flush left and right. Word spacing is adjusted in order that each line fills all the measure. It is the most typical format and could be very easy to read. However, its demerit is that it comprises a variety of hyphens.

• Unjustified: The lines of type on this format is either flushed left and rugged right or flushed right and rugged left. The flush left is common and easy to read but flush right will not be popular and is difficult to read.

• Centered: Type lines on this arrangement appear rugged at each ends. The lines centered on an imaginary vertical line making it symmetrical. It is a superb layout format for headlines and certificates.

ii. Informal Layout

It can be known as Asymmetrical Layout. This format has a casual balance. Each side comprises unequal amounts of copy text and illustrations. Informal balance gives the artist the liberty in placing the different sorts and elements of design using personal opinion and taste. It is usually difficult to read. Examples of the informal layout are contour, run-around and inclined layouts.

• Contour: In this style, either side comprises unequal amounts of copy text and illustrations in an undulating form (move in a wavy pattern).

• Run-around: In this format, either side of the layout comprises unequal amounts of copy text and illustrations in a circular form.

• Inclined: In this layout style, either side of the layout comprises unequal amounts of copy text and illustrations that are slanted to either left or right (diagonal pattern).