SECTION 2C: Use a Multicolumn Design
	A multicolumn design offers several advantages over the single-column text to which your word processor defaults: You can fit more text on a page. You have more options in sizing your graphics. Your text is easier for readers to scan quickly. Your text appears more interesting. You can use your word processor to set the number of columns that you want on a page and to control the amount of space between columns. In addition, you can control whether text flows from the bottom of one column to the top of the next column or ends at a specific location in a column. Consult your word processing program's Help menu for more specific instructions on how to create and edit columns. Ineffective use of columns Effective use of columns Ineffective use of columns This page uses too many columns, making the line length very short and creating awkward breaks in text. In addition, the small space between columns makes it hard for readers to distinguish where one column ends and another begins. http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d02957t.pdf Effective use of columns The three-column design for a newsletter by the STC Management Special Interest Group is effective. The line lengths for each column are appropriate for the type size used. In addition, sufficient space between columns and vertical rules (straight lines) make each column visually distinct. Finally, a pull quote (a brief quotation pulled from the text and displayed in a larger type size) spanning the second and third columns adds interest to the page. http://www.stcsig.org/mgt/news/q400news.pdf

Bedford/St. Martin's | Business & Technical | About the Author | Catalog | Order a Book | Contact Us