FDD 5.3 · FOUNDATIONS OF DIGITAL DESIGN

Type Doesn't Have to Sit in a Straight Line

Three ways to place type, each built for a different job
Grab your Guided Notes (FDD 5.3) and a pencil.
GET READY

Today's Word Bank

Every word below appears on your notes sheet. Watch closely, some get used more than once.
glyph
placeholder
How today works: we'll look at one blank at a time. Study the example, make your best guess, then we'll reveal the answer together. Fill in your notes as we go, don't skip ahead!
1GUIDED NOTES

What type object grows forever until you break it?

This type object grows horizontally forever unless you add a line break, best for headlines and short labels.
GUIDED NOTES #1
POINT TYPE
No automatic wrapping, you control every line break manually.
2GUIDED NOTES

What type object wraps automatically?

This type object wraps automatically inside a closed shape, best for paragraphs and body copy.
GUIDED NOTES #2
AREA TYPE
Automatically flows and wraps within whatever shape contains it.
3GUIDED NOTES

What type object follows a contour?

This type object flows along an open or closed path's contour, best for badges, logos, and curved headlines.
GUIDED NOTES #3
TYPE ON A PATH
The path itself becomes the baseline the text follows.
4GUIDED NOTES

What's a specific visual variant of a character?

A specific visual variant of a character (like a stylistic alternate or ligature) is called a ______.
GUIDED NOTES #4
GLYPH
The same letter can have multiple glyph variants within one typeface.
5GUIDED NOTES

What's dummy text used for?

Dummy text used to preview a layout before real copy is written is called ______ text.
GUIDED NOTES #5
PLACEHOLDER
Standing in for real copy so a layout can be tested before final content exists.
NOW DISCUSS

Turn & Talk

Why might a designer choose Type on a Path for a badge logo instead of just rotating point type by hand?
Think → Pair → Share · 2 minutes · Write your answer on the Discuss line on your guided notes