A hierarchical grid in InDesign is created by dividing a design block into sections, often using halves, to establish a structure with varying levels of importance and visual interest. The provided reference suggests a method based on dividing blocks into halves. Here’s a breakdown:
Creating a Hierarchical Grid
While a single video snippet isn't comprehensive, we can infer a common technique for establishing hierarchical grids:
- Define the Overall Area: Start with your document page or the area where you want the grid.
- Divide into Major Blocks: Visually divide the overall area into larger blocks. These blocks represent the primary divisions of your layout. This could be achieved through guides or simply by visually estimating the space.
- Subdivide for Hierarchy: Select a major block and further divide that block into smaller sections, creating a hierarchy. For example, the video suggests dividing a block in half. This division creates a "hang line" or a space suitable for titles or other secondary information.
- Repeat as Needed: Continue subdividing different major blocks based on the desired content hierarchy and layout needs. One major block might be subdivided into three columns, while another remains undivided.
- Use Guides: Use InDesign's guides to mark these divisions precisely. Drag guides from the rulers (View > Show Rulers if they aren't visible).
- Content Placement: Place your content within these grid divisions. Larger, more important content elements would generally occupy the larger blocks, while smaller or secondary elements fit into the subdivided areas.
Example Scenario:
Imagine a magazine layout.
- Major Blocks: The page might be divided into two major blocks: a larger block for the main article and a smaller block for sidebars or images.
- Subdivision: The main article block is further divided into columns for text and a smaller area at the top for a headline. The sidebar block may be further split to accommodate multiple short articles or advertisements.
Why Use a Hierarchical Grid?
- Visual Interest: Avoids a monotonous grid by creating variation in layout.
- Content Emphasis: Helps highlight important content by giving it more visual space.
- Organization: Structures content in a logical and easily digestible manner.
In summary, you create a hierarchical grid in InDesign by strategically dividing your layout area into blocks and then further subdividing those blocks according to the desired content hierarchy, using guides to maintain consistency.
