Editorial Anatomy: Key Editorial Design Terms

If you’ve ever been captivated by the sleek look of a magazine spread or wondered how a simple page can pack such a visual punch, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’re diving into essential editorial design terms. Whether you’re an aspiring designer or a seasoned pro looking to brush up on your lingo, let’s unravel the anatomy of an editorial layout.

20 Editorial Design Terms You Should Know

The Unseen Skeleton of a Page

1. Spread: A spread is two facing pages viewed together.
2. Margin: Margins are the spaces around the edge of a page.
3. Gutter: The gutter is the space between two pages in a spread. This gap ensures that text and images don’t disappear into the magazine’s spine, maintaining legibility and balance. 
4. Column: Columns are the vertical blocks of text into which the content of a page is flowed. They organize information in a readable, structured manner, guiding the reader’s eye.

Navigation

1. Masthead: The masthead is the identity of a magazine, usually listing the magazine title and additional information like staff members, publication information, issue information, etc.
2. Folio: The folio is page numbering that usually includes the date or issue number. Folios act as a guidepost for readers navigating through the magazine. They’re a subtle yet vital element in editorial design.
3.  Slug: Slug refers to a short label or identifier for a particular story. It can either appear in the top corners of the printed page to serve as a navigation tool for readers, or it can be used only as part of the internal production process of a publication.
4. Jump Line: A jump line is a navigational aid, telling the reader where the story continues or concludes. It ensures a smooth reading journey in publications where articles span multiple pages.

Parts of a Story

1. Body Copy: The main text of the article where the story lives and breathes.
2. Deck: A deck is a short summary of an article, usually located under the headline. It serves as a teaser, providing a sneak peek into the story and enticing readers to dive in.
3. Subhead: A subhead is a secondary heading, or series of secondary headings, that appear within the body of text. Subheads help break up long pieces of text, making the content easier to navigate and digest.
4. Pull Quote: A pull quote is a key phrase, quotation, or excerpt that is pulled from the text and displayed in a larger or distinctive font. It highlights important points and adds visual interest to the page.
5. Byline: The line that tells who wrote an article. 
6. Sidebar: A sidebar is a short piece of writing placed alongside a longer article. It provides related information or another angle of the story, offering additional insights to the reader.

Typography Terms

1. Leading (pronounced ‘ledding’): Leading is the vertical space between lines of text. (I provide a guide on leading and kerning here).
2. Kerning: Kerning is the art of adjusting the space between characters in a word. It’s a detail-oriented task that can make a significant difference in the overall appearance and readability of the text.
3. Typography: Typography is the style and appearance of printed matter.  (For more on typography, see this previous post).
4. Drop Cap: A large capital letter at the beginning of an article or paragraph grabs attention. It’s an age-old tradition that adds a visual punch and draws readers into the story.

Photos & Graphics

1. Caption: A caption is a brief description accompanying an illustration or photograph.
2. Infographic: An infographic visually represents information, data, or knowledge. It simplifies complex information, making it easily digestible and visually appealing.
3. Photo Credit: The photo credit accompanies graphics on the page, usually along the gutter.

Keep these terms in your back pocket, and the next time you flip through your favorite magazine or design a layout, you’ll do so with a deeper appreciation and understanding of the craft.