There are many ways to begin a PDF document using Adobe Acrobat. The easiest and most popular way is to create the document in another application (such as Microsoft Word) and then use the Adobe Acrobat software to convert it to a PDF. In this article, the author describes how he used Acrobat's many tools in his project--an interactive…

The project described in this article explores the transition from a paper-based book, which deals with higher education (HE) ranking tables, namely "The Times Good University Guide" (GUG), to a fully customizable e-book. This article sets the background of the project, identifies design research as the general methodological approach,…

Discussion of page design for desktop publishing focuses on the importance of functional issues as opposed to aesthetic issues, and criticizes a previous article that stressed aesthetic issues. Topics discussed include balance, consistency in text structure, and how differences in layout affect the clarity of "The Declaration of…

Extends the discussion of visual rhetoric to the writing spaces and iconic representations of computer interfaces. Examines interfaces of a word-processing and a page layout program for desktop publishing, revealing the visual nature of the interface. Opines that the visual writing space encourages and fosters a writer's consideration of options…

Describes how a changeover to desktop publishing, working in teams, expansion of the journalism room, and the concept of packaging combined to dramatically change a high school newspaper's approach and product. Argues for a debate on evaluation services. (SR)

Written for those who are new to design and page layout, this book focuses on providing novice desktop publishers with an understanding of communication, graphic design, typography, page layout, and page layout techniques. The book also discusses how people read, design as a consequence of understanding, and the principles of page layout. Chapters…

Affirms that taking time to learn type classification, terminology, and use will be a major step in producing more effective high school newspapers. Considers that desktop publishing is both a blessing and a curse when it comes to type use. Provides type use definitions. (PA)

Reports that although a rhetoric of visible text based on page layout and various design features has been defined, what a writer should know about design is rarely covered. Describes and demonstrates a scope and sequence of learning that encourages writers to develop skills as text designers. Introduces helpful literature that displays visually…

Discusses design principles and procedures that can help librarians use desktop publishing systems to create more effective handouts for bibliographic instruction. Topics addressed include a history of book production; design decisions, including layout, typeface, and color; and suggested readings on designing printed materials. (four references)…

Outlines a step-by-step approach to creating a grid to help in "packaging" news items on the front page, inside news page, and sports page. Offers a completed prototype. (SR)

Describes a technical publications course in which students learning how to use desktop programs also gain an understanding of the principles of design and layout by using mechanical paste-up techniques. (NH)

This course in desktop publishing contains seven illustrated modules designed to meet the following objectives: (1) use a desktop publishing program to explore advanced topics in graphic design; (2) learn about typography and how to make design decisions on the use of typestyles; (3) learn basic principles in graphic communications and apply them…

Special feature includes "There's More to Blur than Meets the Eye" (Davidhazy), about photographic imaging; "Photography Lab's Silver Lining" (Borchers), about recycling silver; "Budget-Priced Layout Programs for School Publishing with DPT [Desktop Publishing]" (Dose); and "Good Learning and Good PR--All in One…

The guide for teachers of English as a Second Language offers practical advice on the format and layout of instructional materials they produce using desktop publishing technology. An introductory section discusses important design considerations for producing effective materials. Subsequent sections describe how to: organize ideas; outline the…

In college publications programs, computer technology makes it possible to maintain editor-designer teamwork across long distances. However, although computers can cut expenses and boost cooperation, the editor and designer must still have basic skills for collaboration, understand each other's work, and focus on the desired product. (MSE)