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Q. Can you suggest some creative ways to handle paragraph indents?
A. While the two most common ways for handling paragraph separations are with the traditional first-line indent or a line space (not both at the same time), there are other options that can add visual interest to your layout:
Extreme indent. Set the first line, or two or three lines, deeper than the usual amount — even as much as half your column width. This striking look is most effective with a wider-than-average column.
An example of extreme indents set in Expo Sans Pro with an initial set in Hobo. Text from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, by Lewis Carroll.
Outdent. This is the opposite of an indent in that the first line hangs outside of the left margin. While it can be a very dramatic treatment, it does reduce the amount of copy that can fit in a measure.
The same copy and setting with outdents separating the paragraphs.
Dingbat. For something a little more illustrative, try adding a dingbat or other simple graphic elements between paragraphs. You can even add color. This can be done in two ways: Run the paragraphs together and separate them with a single dingbat, or use three or five centered dingbats between paragraphs separated by a line space. In either treatment, the size of the dingbat as well as the space around it are essential to a successful treatment.
Zapf Dingbats separate the paragraphs in this example. A touch of red adds to the effectiveness of this technique.
Let your creativity be your guide when designing indents, as long as they’re appropriate to your content and overall design.
And consider whether you really need to indent that first line. Read more here.
Love type? Want to know more? Ilene Strizver conducts her acclaimed Gourmet Typography workshops internationally. For more information on attending one or bringing it to your company, organization, or school, go to her site, call The Type Studio at 203-227-5929, or email Ilene at in**@***********io.com. Sign up for her e-newsletter at www.thetypestudio.com. You can also follow Ilene on Facebook and Twitter.
This article was last modified on August 18, 2021
This article was first published on July 2, 2009
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