Creating a Writing System: Tips and Tricks

TLDRLearn how to create a unique and functional writing system by selecting a script type, writing medium, and rules for your glyphs. Consider the phonetic representation, medium limitations, cultural influences, and scalability of your script.

Key insights

💡Different writing systems, such as Abjad, Alphabet, Abugida, Syllabary, Logographic, Ideographic, and Featural, have unique characteristics and purposes.

🖌️The choice of writing medium, such as stone, paper, clay, or digital, influences the appearance and style of glyphs.

🔡Consider the rules of spelling, capitalization, and punctuation to ensure clarity and ease of reading in your writing system.

🌈The cultural context and traits can influence the design, colors, and overall look of the script.

🔄Iteration is key in developing a writing system. Continuously refine and modify your glyphs and rules until you achieve the desired result.

Q&A

What factors should I consider when choosing a writing medium?

Consider the limitations and characteristics of the material, such as angular shapes for stone carvings, flowing lines for calligraphy, or standardized fonts for printing.

How can I ensure my glyphs are readable at different sizes?

Design your glyphs to be clear and distinct, ensuring they can be scaled up or down without losing legibility. Avoid overly detailed or ambiguous designs.

Should I create separate glyphs for capital letters?

The need for separate capital letters depends on the rules of your language and script. Consider whether uppercase forms are necessary for clarity and consistency.

How can I incorporate cultural elements into my writing system?

Reflect the dominant traits of your culture, such as elegance, warlike nature, or advanced technology, in the design, colors, and overall style of the script.

What is the importance of iteration in developing a writing system?

Iterating allows you to refine and improve your glyphs and rules over time. It helps you find the best balance between aesthetics, functionality, and cultural relevance.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The video discusses the process of creating a writing system, including choosing a script type, writing medium, and rules.

05:07Consider the effect of writing medium on the appearance and style of glyphs, such as angular shapes for stone carvings or flowing lines for calligraphy.

06:23The design of glyphs should take into account scalability, readability at different sizes, and the need for separate capital letters.

06:55Cultural elements can be incorporated into the writing system's design, colors, and overall style to reflect the traits of the culture.

07:26Iteration is essential in developing a writing system, allowing for refinement and improvement over time to achieve the desired result.