wia1elp_ch11

11j Consider design issues

11j

Consider design issues

Most writers today create arguments that are carefully designed to make the best use of space, font style and type size, color, visuals, and technology. Chapter 8 provides extensive information on design issues, and it would be wise to consult that chapter as you design an argument. The following tips will get you thinking about how to produce and design an argument that will add to the ethical, logical, and emotional appeals you are making:

Spend some time deciding on a distinct visual style for your argument, one that will appeal to your intended readers, set a clear voice or tone for your argument, and guide readers through your text.
Check out any conventions that may be expected in the kind of argument you are writing. Look for examples of similar arguments, or ask your instructor for information about such conventions (4f).
Consider the use of white space, titles, and headings and how each page will look. Choose titles, headings, and subheadings that will guide readers from point to point (8c). You may want to set off an especially important part of your argument (such as a list of essential evidence) in a box, carefully labeled.
Make sure that your visual design is consistent. If you choose a particular color, font, or type style for a particular purpose, such as a second-level heading, make sure that you use the same color, font, or type style for that purpose throughout your paper.
Be sure to choose readable fonts and font sizes (8b and c).
Choose colors carefully, and make sure that you use color appropriately for the genre and medium.
Place images close to the text they illustrate, and label each one clearly (8d). Make sure that audio and video files appear in appropriate places and are identified for users.
After you have a rough draft of your design, test it out on friends and classmates, asking them to describe how readable it is, how easy it is to follow, and what you need to change in order to make it more effective. Decide what adjustments you need to make—in format, spacing, alignment, use of color and fonts, and so on.