Page Layout

Page Layout versus Word Processing - There is considerable overlap between modern word processing and page layout programs. Page layout programs contain many word processing features, e.g. search and replace, spell check etc. Word processors allow combination of text and graphics. Word processors treat documents as continuous streams of data (with controlled pagination), while page layout programs work in terms of the page as the basic unit. Master Pages in page layout software form the basis for each page in the publication.

They serve two functions

1. hold repeating elements such as page numbers, borders, running heads and rules,

2. hold nonprinting elements such as column and margin guides.

Normally master pages are set up before adding text and graphics.

Formatting - Two levels of formatting are paragraph format and character format. Paragraph formats apply to entire paragraphs, include indents, left and right margins etc. Can also define rules (lines) for above and below as part of the paragraph format. Also character formats, which apply to individual characters include font, style, size and leading.

Paragraph Style - One of the most powerful tools for automating production. An entire set of paragraph and character formats can be stored by name and applied to multiple paragraphs of text. Styles for different levels of headings, body text, bulleted lists, captions, etc. Graphics Page layout programs provide power and flexibility.

Can place them directly on a page where text can flow around them.

Can anchor to specific location in text with the graphic moving with subsequent edits of the text.

Can store graphics inside the publication or link to them as external files. Changing the external file updates the page layout. We illustrate by example. The most popular page layout programs are Adobe PageMaker, QuarkXPress, Corel Ventura and Adobe FrameMaker.