How do you measure and adjust the white space ratio in your layouts?

2 Use Grids and Guides

Grids and guides are another way to create structure and alignment in your layout. They can help you divide your page into columns, rows, margins, and gutters, and ensure that your elements are spaced and positioned consistently. You can use grids and guides to create different layouts for different types of content, such as text, images, charts, and graphics. You can also use them to create visual hierarchy and contrast by varying the size, shape, and color of your elements.

3 Use the White Space Ratio Calculator

If you want to measure the exact amount of white space in your layout, you can use the white space ratio calculator. This is a tool that calculates the percentage of white space in your layout by comparing the area of the elements to the area of the page. You can use this tool to compare different layouts and see how they affect the readability and aesthetics of your design. The ideal white space ratio depends on your goals and preferences, but a general rule of thumb is to aim for a ratio between 30% and 50%.

5 Use the Gestalt Principles

The gestalt principles are a set of psychological rules that explain how humans perceive and organize visual information. These principles can be used to create order, coherence, and meaning in your layout by manipulating white space. For example, Proximity states that elements close together appear to belong to the same group. Similarity suggests that elements with similar characteristics look like they belong together. Continuity is when elements form a continuous line or curve that looks connected. Closure is when elements form an incomplete shape but are still perceived as complete. Lastly, Figure-Ground states that elements that stand out from the background are seen as the figure, while the rest of the elements become the ground.

6 Experiment and Iterate

The final tip is to experiment and iterate with your layout until you find the best balance of white space and content. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for desktop publishing, as different projects have different goals, audiences, formats, and styles. You can use the tips and tools mentioned above as guidelines, but you also need to use your own judgment and creativity. Try different variations of your layout, get feedback from others, and test your design on different devices and platforms. The more you practice and refine your skills, the more you will be able to master the art of white space in desktop publishing.