Typeset Dashboard Navigation Basics
Learning Objectives
- Navigate the Typeset dashboard layout and main functions
- Manage and organize project folders effectively
- Create your first design project using Typeset templates
Introduction
The Typeset dashboard is your main workspace for all design projects. Getting comfortable with this interface early will save you time and frustration later. This chapter covers the essential dashboard features, shows you how to keep your projects organized, and walks you through creating your first design.
Lessons
Lesson 1: Understanding the Dashboard Layout
When you first log into Typeset, you'll see the main dashboard. Here's what you need to know:
Step 1: Look at the top menu bar
This contains File, Edit, View, and Help options. You'll use these regularly for basic operations like saving, undoing changes, and getting help.
Step 2: Find the project folders sidebar
This appears on the left side of your screen. All your design projects live here, organized in folders you create.
Step 3: Locate the main workspace area
This central area is where you'll see project previews and access your designs.
Step 4: Check the Quick Access Toolbar
At the very top, you'll find shortcuts for common actions like save, undo, and redo. This saves clicking through menus for basic tasks.
The dashboard might feel overwhelming at first, but these four areas handle most of what you'll do in Typeset.
Lesson 2: Organizing Your Projects
Good organization prevents the headache of hunting through dozens of files later.
Step 1: Create your first folder
Click "New Folder" in the project sidebar. Give it a clear name like "Client Work" or "Personal Projects."
Step 2: Move existing projects
Drag and drop projects into your new folders. You can also right-click any project to rename or delete it.
Step 3: Set up a folder system
Consider creating folders for different types of work, clients, or project stages. Common setups include:
- By client name
- By project type (flyers, posters, cards)
- By status (in progress, completed, archived)
Step 4: Clean up regularly
Archive or delete old projects you no longer need. This keeps your workspace tidy and loads faster.
Lesson 3: Creating Your First Design
Now for the fun part – actually making something.
Step 1: Start a new project
Click "New Project" in the main menu. This opens the template selection screen.
Step 2: Choose a template
Browse the available templates and pick one that fits your project. Templates give you a head start with layout and design elements already in place.
Step 3: Customize your design
Use the editing tools to add your own text, images, and adjustments. The template provides the structure, but you make it yours.
Step 4: Save your work
Press Ctrl+S (or Cmd+S on Mac) to save. Do this regularly – you don't want to lose your progress.
This is the bit most people miss: templates aren't meant to be used exactly as they are. They're starting points for your own ideas.
Practice
Create a folder called "Practice Projects" and use any template to design a simple greeting card. Don't worry about making it perfect – this exercise helps you get familiar with the basic workflow of organizing, creating, and saving in Typeset.
FAQs
How do I save my design in Typeset?
Click File > Save from the top menu, or press Ctrl+S (Cmd+S on Mac).
Can I undo mistakes?
Yes, press Ctrl+Z (Cmd+Z on Mac) or click the undo button in the Quick Access Toolbar.
How do I share my design for feedback?
Use the Share option in the top menu, enter the person's email, and set whether they can view or edit.
What happens if I accidentally delete a project?
Check if your account has a trash or recycle bin feature. If not, deleted projects are usually gone for good, so be careful.
Can I work on projects offline?
This depends on your Typeset plan and setup. Check your account settings or contact support for specifics.
Jargon Buster
Dashboard: The main Typeset interface where you manage all your designs and account settings.
Project Folders: Organizational containers where you group related designs together.
Templates: Pre-designed layouts you can customize for your own projects instead of starting from scratch.
Quick Access Toolbar: The row of shortcut buttons at the top of the interface for common actions.
Wrap-up
You now know how to navigate the Typeset dashboard, organize your projects in folders, and create your first design using templates. The key is to start simple and build your skills gradually. Focus on getting comfortable with the basic workflow before exploring advanced features.
Next, you'll learn about Typeset's design tools and how to customize templates to match your vision.