Typographical Hierarchy - Arlington Public Schools

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Typographical Hierarchy
Information Importance in Text

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To begin, I’m not using any typographic devices to establish
the hierarchy: it’s all one typeface in one size and weight. The
only thing communicating hierarchy is the order in which the
text is presented.

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We have the same typeface and type size, but we’ve started to
introduce some clarity to the information by chunking it into
logical groups. Again, we’re establishing hierarchy by the
order in which the text is presented.

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Next, let’s emphasize the most important element with a weight
change. Notice that when we have at least two graphic devices
working, we no longer need have to have our most important
piece of information on top in order for it be read first.

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Next, we introduce a new type size to the hierarchy. The
increased size shows the reader where to begin reading.
Varying the vertical spacing provides a bit more structure.

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Now let’s add some variety by varying the alignment and spacing,
and introducing multiple sizes and weights.We use tools such as
weight and size to emphasize the most important content, while
simultaneously employing those same devices to make the less
important content recede.

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Next comes color, which we are using to guide the eye around
the composition. Graphic elements (such as lines and shapes)
are also added to emphasize certain blocks of content.

+How can we use this concept

in our LP cover designs?

The larger
the text the
more
prominent
the
information.

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Placement
of the text
will guide
the viewers
eye around
the page.

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Font weight
and size can
play a role
in visual
hierarchy.

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Use design
elements in
conjunction
with
typography
to create

+ visual
movement.

Color
theory and
color
blocking
can also
play a

+ role in
typographic
hierarchy.