The world of book publishing has accumulated specialized vocabulary over centuries of crafting and designing print publications. Here are definitions of some frequently used terms related to the visual design elements of books:
Typography
- Font: A complete set of letters, numbers, punctuation, and symbols with a cohesive visual design. For example, Times New Roman is a common book font.
- Typeface: Refers to the overall look and styling of letterforms, independent of size, weight, slant, etc. For example, Helvetica is a popular sans-serif typeface.
- Serif: Small ornamental lines or feet on the ends of letter strokes, associated with classical typefaces like Times New Roman.
- Sans-serif: Typefaces without serifs, which create a stark, modern appearance. Popular book choices include Arial and Helvetica.
- Leading: The vertical space between lines of text, measured in points. Wider leading enhances readability.
- Kerning: Adjusting horizontal spacing between specific letter pairs like AV or To to improve legibility.
- Tracking: Overall spacing adjustment applied evenly between all letters and words to fit columns.
Page Layout
- Margins: Blank spaces around edge of the page that frame the text block. Standard margins are 1 to 1.5 inches.
- Column: Vertical block of text spanning from header to footer. Most books have 1 to 3 columns with margins between them.
- Gutter: Space between columns also called the alley. Should be wide enough to see separate columns.
- Orphan: Single line of a paragraph isolated on its own page. Good layouts avoid orphans through precise spacing.
- Widow: Last line of a paragraph appearing alone on the next page. Often unavoidable but distracting.
Cover Elements
- Trim size: Final dimensions of the printed book after cutting edges to be even. Standard sizes range from 4x6" up to 8.5x11".
- Bleed: Printable elements extended beyond the trim line to avoid white edges after trimming. Require 1/8" bleed allowance.
- Flaps: Paper extensions of the front and back covers folded over to protect edges.
- Jacket: Paper cover wrapped around the outer case, also called a dust jacket. Used for decorative covers and blurbs.
Mastering the lingo enables effective communication between designers, editors, typographers, and other publishing professionals collaborating to create a polished book.