Setting the Language

Electronic Styling: Myths and Realities

As you set type using programs such as InDesign, people may tell you never to style fonts electronically . So if you use the Roman version of a font (such as Minion), you should never press the keyboard shortcut for italic. You should only choose the actual typeface (Minion Italic) from the font menu.

This rule emerged because some typefaces do not have an italic or bold version. The styling shows on the screen, but it doesn't print. Techno or Zapf Dingbats are examples of fonts that shouldn't be styled electronically. When people see their printed samples, they're disappointed that there is no bold or italic appearance.

Fortunately, InDesign prevents you from making errors like that. If you apply the shortcut for italic, InDesign applies the actual italic version. If there is no version, InDesign does not change the font. So there is no harm styling electronically using InDesign.

I've also heard people advise to avoid all caps, subscript, small caps, and other electronic styles on type. In most cases, there is nothing wrong with applying those styles, and InDesign allows you to apply those electronic styles to text.

In some cases you'll have better results with a small-caps version of a font than with the electronic style for small caps. However, a special small-caps font offers a subtle effect that few people will recognize. ( For an excellent discussion on how to use electronic small caps, see The Non-Designer's Type Book, by Robin Williams, published by Peachpit Press .)

I personally hate the electronic styling for Vertical and Horizontal Scale. They distort the type horribly. The Skew command is even worse ! However, I do accept that there might be times (grotesque Halloween cards?) where those distortions are acceptable.