Thinking with Type, 2nd revised and expanded edition
In 'Thinking with Type', Ellen Lupton takes readers on a fascinating journey into the world of typography, blending theory and practice. This second revised and expanded edition dives deeper into the art and science of type, offering fresh insights on legibility, composition, and visual hierarchy. Lupton's engaging prose and rich illustrations make complex concepts accessible to both novices and seasoned designers. By exploring the impact of typography on communication, this book challenges you to rethink your relationship with text. Are you ready to unlock the hidden power of the written word?
By Ellen Lupton
Published: 2010
"Typography is a visual language that helps us communicate, shaping our thoughts and ideas into forms that resonate with our audience."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Our all time best selling book is now available in a revised and expanded second edition. Thinking with Type is the definitive guide to using typography in visual communication, from the printed page to the computer screen. This revised edition includes forty-eight pages of new content, including the latest information on style sheets for print and the web, the use of ornaments and captions, lining and non-lining numerals, the use of small caps and enlarged capitals, as well as information on captions, font licensing, mixing typefaces, and hand lettering. Throughout the book, visual examples show how to be inventive within systems of typographic form—what the rules are and how to break them. Thinking with Type is a type book for everyone: designers, writers, editors, students, and anyone else who works with words. The popular online companion to Thinking with Type (www.thinkingwithtype.com) has been revised to reflect the new material in the second edition.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Thinking with Type, 2nd revised and expanded edition
About the Author
Ellen Lupton
Ellen Lupton is a celebrated designer, educated at the Maryland Institute College of Art, where she also serves as the director of the Graphic Design MFA program. An influential figure in the field of visual communication, she is renowned for her contributions to design theory and critical writing. Lupton is the author of several notable books, including "Thinking with Type," a foundational text on typography, and "Graphic Design: The New Basics," which explores design principles through a contemporary lens. Her writing is characterized by its clarity and accessibility, making complex design concepts understandable to both professionals and novices alike. Through her work, Lupton advocates for the importance of design in everyday life, inspiring a generation of designers.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Ellen Lupton
- Published
- October 2010
- Publisher
- Princeton Architectural Press
- ISBN
- 1568989695
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 224
- Genres
- Graphic DesignDesign
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Stop Stealing Sheep & Find Out how Type Works
Erik Spiekermann, E. M. Ginger
Better Web Typography for a Better Web
Matej Latin
Typography Essentials Revised and Updated
Ina Saltz
The Designer's Dictionary of Type
Sean Adams
The Evolution of Type
Tony Seddon
Just My Type
Simon Garfield
Designing with Type, 5th Edition
James Craig, Irene Korol Scala
Closing the Ring
Winston Churchill
The Design of Everyday Things
Don Norman
The Art of Game Design
Jesse Schell
Gamification by Design
Accessibility for Everyone
Laura Kalbag
Design for Real Life
Eric A. Meyer, Sara Wachter-Boettcher
Designing for People
Henry Dreyfuss
Thoughts on Design
Paul Rand
Milton Glaser: Graphic Design
Milton Glaser
Treasury of Alphabets and Lettering
Jan Tschichold
The Non-designer's Design Book
Robin Williams
Bleak House
Charles Dickens
Secrets of Power Negotiating
Roger Dawson
Book of Ideas
Radim Malinic
Kant and the Platypus
Umberto Eco
This Brave New World
Anja Manuel
This is Service Design Thinking
Marc Stickdorn, Jakob Schneider
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Shane Parrish's Book Recommendations
Shane Parrish is a renowned author and the founder of Farnam Street, a popular blog dedicated to personal development and decision-making. His insightful writings delve into mental models, critical thinking, and learning strategies, earning him a significant following among intellectuals and professionals alike. Parrish's work emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and thinking differently to achieve success. He is also the host of "The Knowledge Project" podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers to uncover their wisdom. His contributions have made a substantial impact on how readers approach problem-solving and personal growth.
View Collection
Jan Losert's Book Recommendations
Jan Losert is a visionary author and digital design expert, renowned for his contributions to the intersection of technology and creativity. His most significant work includes co-authoring "Design Systems Handbook," which has become a seminal guide for creating cohesive and efficient design frameworks. Losert's expertise extends to his role as a speaker and educator, where he passionately shares his insights on user experience and interface design. In addition to his literary achievements, he co-founded several successful startups, leveraging his deep understanding of design to drive innovation. His work continues to influence and inspire both emerging and established designers worldwide.
View Collection
Bret Victor's Book Recommendations
Bret Victor is a renowned American interface designer and computer scientist celebrated for his innovative contributions to interactive design and human-computer interaction. He is best known for creating dynamic, explorable explanations, which have significantly influenced the way educational content is presented and understood. Victor's seminal work, "Inventing on Principle," advocates for the integration of immediate feedback in creative processes, inspiring a new wave of interactive programming environments. As a former member of the Apple Human Interface team, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern user interfaces. Through his organization, Dynamicland, Victor continues to explore and expand the boundaries of immersive, collaborative computing environments.
View Collection
Caterina Fake's Book Recommendations
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
View Collection
Coleen Baik's Book Recommendations
Coleen Baik is an American designer, artist, and entrepreneur, known for her work in the tech industry, including as a founding team member of Twitter. Baik played a key role in shaping the user experience and design of Twitter in its early days, contributing to its iconic interface. She is also the founder of Baik Art, a multidisciplinary art studio that blends technology and visual art. Baik is passionate about using design to create meaningful and user-centered digital experiences, and she frequently speaks on topics related to innovation, design, and creativity. Her work has made her a prominent figure in the intersection of tech and design.
View Collection
Dr. Harvey Karp's Book Recommendations
Dr. Harvey Karp is a renowned pediatrician and child development expert, best known for his groundbreaking method for calming infants, as detailed in The Happiest Baby on the Block. He is the creator of the SNOO Smart Sleeper, a robotic crib designed to help babies sleep safely and soundly. Dr. Karp has been a leading voice in pediatric health for decades, emphasizing the importance of sleep for both babies and parents. His methods have revolutionized infant care and parenting techniques. He continues to advocate for improved early childhood development practices.
View Collection
Kevin Rose's Book Recommendations
Kevin Rose is a notable entrepreneur and technology investor, best known for founding Digg, a pioneering social news website that significantly influenced online content sharing. Although not primarily recognized for literary contributions, Rose has impacted digital media and online culture, which are recurring themes in contemporary literature on technology. His insights and experiences have been featured in various tech journals and books, enriching discussions on innovation and digital entrepreneurship. Rose also co-hosted the popular podcast "The Random Show" with Tim Ferriss, where he shares his thoughts on technology, health, and productivity. Through his ventures and public speaking, Rose continues to inspire narratives around the digital revolution and startup culture.
View Collection
Andrew Chen's Book Recommendations
Andrew Chen is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in growth marketing, currently serving as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Chen is known for his expertise in network effects, viral growth strategies, and marketplace dynamics, making him a sought-after advisor for startups looking to scale. Prior to joining Andreessen Horowitz, he worked in leadership roles at Uber, helping to grow the ride-sharing platform’s user base and develop key growth strategies. Chen is also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on growth, technology, and startups through his popular blog and newsletter, which has attracted a loyal following in the tech community. His work has helped shape how many startups approach user acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. As a venture capitalist, Chen focuses on early-stage companies in the consumer internet, SaaS, and marketplace sectors, and he has been involved in funding and advising several successful startups. His insights on technology and growth continue to influence both founders and investors alike.
View Collection
Cleo Abram's Book Recommendations
Cleo Abram is a distinguished journalist and content creator known for her incisive storytelling and engaging multimedia presentations. She gained widespread recognition as a producer and host for Vox's acclaimed series, "Glad You Asked," where she explored complex topics with clarity and depth. Abram's work often intersects with technology and culture, making intricate subjects accessible to a broad audience. In addition to her journalistic endeavors, she has contributed thought-provoking essays and articles to various esteemed publications. Her innovative approach to storytelling continues to influence and inspire both readers and aspiring journalists.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Debbie Millman's Book Recommendations
Debbie Millman is a renowned designer, author, educator, and brand consultant, celebrated for her influential work in the field of design and branding. She is the host of the award-winning podcast "Design Matters," which is one of the world's first and longest-running podcasts about design and creative culture. Millman has authored several critically acclaimed books, including "Brand Thinking and Other Noble Pursuits" and "Why Design Matters: Conversations with the World's Most Creative People." As the Chair of the Masters in Branding Program at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, she has shaped the minds of future design leaders. Her contributions to literature and education have earned her a place among the most respected voices in contemporary design and branding.
View Collection
Jeremiah Shoaf's Book Recommendations
Jeremiah Shoaf is a distinguished designer and writer, best known for his influential contributions to typography and design literature. As the founder of Typewolf, a renowned website that guides designers in selecting the perfect fonts, Shoaf has become a vital resource in the design community. His insightful articles and reviews on typography have earned him a significant following and respect among design professionals. Shoaf's work has been featured in numerous design publications, solidifying his status as an authority in the field. Beyond Typewolf, his broader contributions to design education have inspired and informed both aspiring and established designers worldwide.
View Collection
Michael Bierut's Book Recommendations
Michael Bierut is a renowned graphic designer, educator, and author, known for his influential work in the field of design. A partner at the prestigious design firm Pentagram since 1990, Bierut has created iconic branding and identity systems for clients such as The New York Times, Saks Fifth Avenue, and MIT Media Lab. His literary contributions include the acclaimed book "How to," which offers insights into his design process and philosophy, and "Seventy-nine Short Essays on Design," a collection of thought-provoking reflections on the design industry. As a senior critic in graphic design at the Yale School of Art, Bierut has mentored countless students, shaping the future of design education. His work has garnered numerous awards, solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary design.
View Collection
Jessica Hische's Book Recommendations
Jessica Hische is an acclaimed American lettering artist, illustrator, and author, renowned for her distinctive typographic style and contributions to the world of design. She gained widespread recognition for her work on the "Daily Drop Cap" project, which showcased her talent and creativity in lettering. Hische has collaborated with major clients such as Wes Anderson, Penguin Books, and The New York Times, further cementing her status in the design community. Her book, "In Progress," offers valuable insights into her creative process, inspiring countless designers and artists. Additionally, Hische’s advocacy for work-life balance and creative entrepreneurship has made her a respected voice in the industry.
View Collection
Brett Adcock's Book Recommendations
Brett Adcock is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Archer Aviation, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) company focused on revolutionizing urban air mobility. Prior to founding Archer, Adcock co-founded Vettery, a talent marketplace that connects companies with job seekers using data-driven matching technology, which was later acquired by the Adecco Group. At Archer, Adcock is working to build the future of transportation with electric aircraft designed for short-distance flights in urban areas. His vision for the future of air travel has made him a key player in the growing eVTOL and aviation technology industries.
View Collection
Dustin Moskovitz's Book Recommendations
Dustin Moskovitz is an American entrepreneur and co-founder of the social networking website Facebook, which has become one of the most influential platforms globally. He later co-founded Asana, a popular work management tool designed to help teams orchestrate their work, from daily tasks to strategic initiatives. While Moskovitz is not primarily known for contributions to literature, his impact on the tech industry and workplace productivity has been widely documented and analyzed in numerous books and articles. His philanthropic efforts through the Good Ventures foundation, which he started with his wife Cari Tuna, also highlight his significant role in promoting effective altruism. Moskovitz's work continues to influence both technology and business management practices around the world.
View Collection
Piter Dimitrov's Book Recommendations
Piter Dimitrov is a celebrated contemporary author known for his evocative storytelling and profound character development. His debut novel, "Whispers of the Forgotten," earned critical acclaim and won the prestigious Man Booker Prize. Dimitrov's works often explore themes of memory, identity, and the human condition, resonating deeply with a global audience. In addition to his novels, he has penned numerous essays and short stories featured in leading literary journals. Dimitrov's distinctive voice and literary prowess have firmly established him as a significant figure in modern literature.
View Collection“Typography is a visual language that helps us communicate, shaping our thoughts and ideas into forms that resonate with our audience.”
Thinking with Type, 2nd revised and expanded edition
By Ellen Lupton
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.