Layout Index: Brochure, Web Design, Poster, Flyer, Advertising, Page Layout, Newsletter, Stationery Index

I had bought this book years ago when I was attending The Art Institute hoping it would kick those creative juices into high gear on various school projects. What I didn't know is that, this book became a gateway drug to Jim's other excellent "index" books and create a reference for me to draw to in the real world!I became acutely aware of how much better I had become as a designer in school when my work started gaining more and more praise from other creatives (students) and my teachers. This started happening not long after some of the layout suggestions in this book started to influence the way I would design. Since that time I've worked in the field and used this to show newbie interns and designers some tricks and tips to make them better. Especially when they/we struggle, which is bound to happen when your degree becomes your career.It's a valuable resource that I purchased for <$20 and I'd highly suggest it to any graphic designer... seasoned or just getting started!

If you are looking for a visual inspiration book be sure to steer clear of this one. While Jim does offer extremely helpful insight and case studies, the designs are horrendous. Use this book only as a tool for brainstorming different types of brochures, folders, newsletters, etc. DO NOT use this book for visual inspiration. The designs alone will make you nauseated. I hope a revised version comes out where a little more effort is put into the designs.

If you liked the color guide, that's well and dandy... but the layout guide is not as useful at all for designers. For aspiring designers and those in school, this is good. But its far too safe and ordinary for modern designers who are looking for inspiration to spice up their work. More of a beginners guide.

This is a top-notch, professional reference book for graphic designers. I'm self-taught graphic design, and I learned a lot with this book. I purchased all books by this author and use them all the time. I HIGHLY suggest purchasing his book in the Flexibound cover. It is worth the few extra bucks for the durability because this book with be used a lot.

Krause's books are essential for graphic, document, and web designers. They aren't "how to" books, they're idea books. If you can use the software and have a basic understanding of design principles, these books will provide the inspiration you need to be a good designer. They get you started with an idea, and you take over from there. They are an essential part of my library.

I own the Logo Index book by the same author. Had to buy it when I was in art school and fell in love with its use for inspiration.Layout Index is just as useful for its topic. What I love about it most is that it's small and I can keep on my desk for quick ideas while brainstorming!If you're a designer... Get it. It's useful.

No writer is immune to writer's block. No designer is immune to designer's block. This book isn't an "answer book". It's more like an "inspiration book". Leafing through it will rattle your memory banks and get your imagination moving again if your brain is frazzled from thinking too long and too hard about layout. It's an instant brainstorm. It's great.

excellent

I got this book for my daughter to use in her college media course. The book is a great source of layout and design ideas and suitable for use in desktop publishing, an subject she was struggling with.My daughter found the book invaluable and feels it contributed towards her passing the course.

This is a little gem. Packed with inspiration for flyers, websites, posters, brochures and newsletters, etc. Handy tips scattered throughout.

another excellent book from Jim. Thanks

This book is pretty dated and not particularly helpful. Don't get this.