You're pumped up. You've purchased a copy of InDesign, installed it, checked out the interface, and now you're ready to put the program to work. So, what's next ? Launch the application and start clicking? Hardly. Creating a publication with InDesign is much like going on a trip. You won't reach your destination unless you've prepared a plan for getting there. And you'll reach your destination more quickly and more easily if your plan is a sound one.
Remember, too, that most trips don't go exactly according to plan. InDesign is both versatile and forgiving . As you create a publication, you should feel free to change your mind, experiment, and let your creativity roam. As long as you reach your destination (on time!), taking a few detours is acceptable, and encountering a few roadblocks (small ones, you hope) is inevitable.