Standard Layout for a Brochure

Use the right type of brochure to share information.

A brochure provides customers and business prospects with information relevant to a business, organization or area in a convenient, small media. Brochures use a variety of layouts and designs, but there are some forms that are standard. Knowing what the standard types of brochures are can help you decide which type is best for your business, organization or venue.

Basic Layout

Use a bifold or tri-fold design to make one of the most common types of brochures. A bifold brochure consists of four panels while a trifold uses six panels. The brochure displays the information in the order the person will see it. This means that after the person opens the brochure, they will read the information on the inside front flap (behind the front page). They will then read the information on the folded piece in the middle. This spot is good for charts or contact information. They then open the brochure to read the inner two panels. Because you can work with two panels, you can use more space to make a point. These types work well for any type of situation.

Gate

A gate-form brochure resembles double-doors opening. The front two panels contain the introductory information or image. Once the reader opens the two front panels ("doors"), the reader can see more information on the main page in addition to the back of the "door" panels. The backs of the "door" panels can hold extra information, like phone numbers or tips.

One-Page Brochure

Use a one-page brochure to display a small amount of clear information. More complicated or in-depth information, like information about various medical conditions, don't belong on a one-page brochure. The Print Runner website states that these types of brochures usually contain financial information or directions. When designing the one-page brochure, use organizational tools, like bullets and graphs, to display the information clearly.

Four or More Panels

If the brochure covers an information-heavy topic, try using a larger layout, like four or more panels. Only use this layout if there is enough vital information to put on all of the panels. Don't waste the reader's time just to fill up space. Printer Runner states medical information and vacation locations often use these types of brochures. Four panel brochures usually fold in an accordion style.

References

• Brochure Design: Gate-Fold Brochure Design
• Fort Lewis: Rack Brochure Guidelines
• Print Runner: Using the Four Types of Brochures