Graphic design is telling a story by using both images and text. With that definition in mind, this course will focus on the textual elements of graphic design. From the history of typography, the difference between type, fonts and text as well as exposure to typography spacing, students will learn the value of selecting the best kind of type and combinations of fonts to get their message across in a visually pleasing manner.



Textual Elements of Design: Fonts, Typography, and Spacing
This course is part of Graphic Design Elements for Non-Designers Specialization

Instructor: Lori Poole
Access provided by Toshiba Software India
21,593 already enrolled
(281 reviews)
Recommended experience
What you'll learn
- Appreciate the history and future of typography as an artform. 
- Compare and contrast the similarities and nuances between the concepts of typography, fonts and text. 
- Work with the various aspects of spacing type, includingleading, kerning and tracking. 
Skills you'll gain
Details to know

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There are 4 modules in this course
This module will cover the history of typography, baseline basics and the anatomy of a typeface.
What's included
4 videos2 readings1 assignment1 plugin
This module will cover the two main types of fonts and font pairings and hierarchy.
What's included
2 videos1 reading1 discussion prompt
This module will cover typographical spacing and sizing, as well as the concepts of alignment, leading, tracking and kerning.
What's included
4 videos1 reading1 assignment1 discussion prompt1 plugin
This module will review using type in various computer design programs. You will also get a chance to practice your skills in designing a brochure or postcard, focusing on the use of type in your design.
What's included
3 videos1 reading1 peer review
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Learner reviews
281 reviews
- 5 stars78.29% 
- 4 stars18.50% 
- 3 stars1.42% 
- 2 stars1.42% 
- 1 star0.35% 
Showing 3 of 281
Reviewed on May 24, 2025
amazing course i had learn a lot about the history of typography, with an excellent dr.
Reviewed on Dec 26, 2020
I learned a lot from Dr. Lori Poole and this course. The course is designed well and provides great insight into the graphic design industry, especially for a complete beginner like myself.
Reviewed on Oct 13, 2020
Good simple course with good opportunity for designing practice. However, the volumes of the videos are very low in some cases.
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