Course Description: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Adobe InDesign, a professional desktop publishing software. Students will learn the basics of creating and designing layouts for print and digital media.
Introduction to Adobe InDesign
- Overview of the interface and workspace
- Understanding document settings and preferences
- Creating, saving, and managing documents
Working with Text and Typography
- Importing and formatting text
- Applying character and paragraph styles
- Working with fonts, type sizes, and spacing
Managing Layouts and Pages
- Setting up master pages for consistent design
- Adding, arranging, and deleting pages
- Creating multi-page documents and booklets
Placing and Arranging Graphics
- Importing images, illustrations, and logos
- Scaling, rotating, and positioning graphics
- Wrapping text around images
Creating and Formatting Tables
- Building and styling tables for data and layout
- Merging and splitting cells
- Formatting cell borders, fills, and typography
Working with Color and Swatches
- Creating and managing color swatches
- Applying colors to text, shapes, and backgrounds
- Using gradients and tints for visual effects
Adding and Formatting Shapes and Objects
- Drawing and modifying shapes
- Applying fills, strokes, and effects to objects
- Using the Pathfinder panel for shape operations
Layers and Object Arrangement
- Organizing content with layers
- Arranging objects using stacking order, grouping, and alignment
- Using the Layers panel for efficient editing
Interactive Documents and Hyperlinks
- Creating hyperlinks and interactive elements
- Adding buttons, forms, and navigation aids
- Exporting to interactive PDF and digital formats
- Print Preparation and Export
- Understanding print settings and requirements
- Packaging documents for print production
- Exporting files for various print formats (PDF, EPS)
Creating eBooks and Digital Publications
- Designing layouts for digital devices
- Converting print documents to digital formats
- Optimizing content for eReaders and tablets
- Final Projects and Capstone
- Applying Adobe InDesign concepts to create a final project
- Conducting a complete layout design project
- Final project presentation and evaluation
Assessment:
- Class participation and engagement
- Hands-on exercises and layout projects
- Mid-term and final layout design projects
- Final project presentation and evaluation