Magazine Spread Logic

Why use more than one column on a page? 
Multicolumn grids provide flexible formats for publications that have a complex hierarchy or that integrate text and illustrations. It increases the amount of flexibility for each spread as well as provide another element to add to hierarchy that integrates with images.

How many characters is optimal for a line length? words per line?
A line should be about 12 to 14 inches long. When working with a 9 pt to 12 pt font, it's reccommended to use ten to twelve words or sixty to seventy characters per line.

Why is the baseline grid used in design?
It's a great guide to base all the layout elements and serves as an anchor. 

What are reasons to set type justified? ragged (unjustified)?
To create a clean shape on the page and be the most efficient with space, justify type. If awkward spacing has been created from justifying type, sometimes flushing left and jagged right can be a better solution. It creates more of an organic feel for the page.

What is a typographic river?
A typographic river  occurs when the spaces between words in a body of text form and connect between lines to create a continuous white space that flows between lines.  This is a no-no and should be adjusted, for it can be distracting for the reader.

What does clothesline, hangline or flow line mean?
This is an imaginary line positioned on a page where the designer designates to hang text from on that page.

What is type color/texture mean?
Type color can be influenced by the leading or space between lines of text. Smaller lines = bolder type color. Thicker lines = less type color. You can create texture and contrast in typography by alternating between bold and thin typefaces. 

How does x-height effect type color?
Typefaces with high x-heights require more leading than those with smaller x-heights. So if you are looking for bolder color, use a typeface with smaller x-heights.

What are some ways to indicate a new paragraph. Are there any rules?
There are a variety of ways a designer can indicate a new paragraph. A few ways to start a new paragraph: indenting, extra space between lines of text, or the use of the paragraph symbol.  The only rule I'm aware of for new paragraphs is that the first paragraph in a body of text should not be indented.