How to Measure Columns

Newspapers measure page space in column inches, while online publications provide ad measurements in pixels.

Both printed and online publications organize their layout to allow for easy reading and maximum advertising space. Many magazines and newspapers rely on adjustable column formats to accomplish this. Page designers create columns by dividing a page into several vertical strips of equal width. A second set of vertical segments creates space between columns. When forming columns, each publisher will adhere to its own guidelines regarding the width of the column, spacing and thickness of margins. The publishing team may discuss these variables in any imperial, metric or comparative unit. But when buying or selling space in a newspaper, "column inches" is the standard measurement.

Things You'll Need

• Ruler

Instructions

1. Measure the height of the column in inches, excluding the margins.

2. Count the number of columns.

3. Calculate the height of the usable area in column inches. Multiply the height of the page by the number of columns. (For instance, if a page is 10 inches high and there are six columns, the page has 60 column inches.)

4. Write the dimensions of page space as column inches by the number of columns. (e.g. 60 column inches by 6 columns) This informs the other party of the orientation and width of the item.

Tips & Warnings

• When purchasing an ad space the column inches only provide one dimension. The number of columns is a crucial factor that determines the size of the ad. A 40-column inch ad may be 10 inches high and four columns wide or 20 inches high and two columns wide.

References

• Beacon Online: Broadsheet Column Inches
• SFCC Graphic Design: Newspaper Column Inches
• The Typehead Chronicles: Measure For Measure