We recently saw a neat tip on how to create better drop caps using the discretionary line break in InDesign. So what? We rarely create drop caps – at first glance, it wasn't that exciting.
But it was a solution to an avoidable problem in document construction. One that could have big ramifications. And those are the problems to avoid – the ones with big ramifications.
It resonated with us because it's an error prevention technique. When we design the production process for a document, we look for ways to prevent errors. So it ticked a big box and we put it in our kit bag of techniques to reach for when the need arises.
For the curious, the drop cap problem will occur when the capital letter is detached from the text. This is a common technique that provides more design flexibility.
There are risks with playing fast and loose with drop caps. If the text is exported for use in another format and the capital letter has been removed, it will no longer be in the text.
Or if the text changes and that sentence moves further down the copy, it would leave that word without its first letter – the drop cap letter.
You could end up with nonsense words that a spell checker would pick up – if you did a final spell check. Or you can end up with real words that change the meaning entirely. ‘The’ would become He.
And ‘She’ would also become He.
‘Ball sports’ could turn into All sports!
A spellchecker would not detect the changes because the words are still words. The wrong words, but words nonetheless.
And a checking process will not work – most people can’t spot small changes in their own work.
However, if set up correctly, drop caps can’t become a problem. The letter can be visually detached and manipulable while remaining part of the text. You just need to know how.
