Schriftsatz

Schriftsatz is a German term for the process of typesetting or set copy, i.e., the arrangement of text for printing or display. In typography and publishing it encompasses the selection of typefaces, point sizes, line length, line spacing (leading), kerning, hyphenation, and justification, as well as the overall page layout.

Historically, Schriftsatz referred to the physical act of placing metal type or type blocks into composing sticks to form lines of text before printing. This craftsman’s skill affected legibility and rhythm, and page proofs were necessary to detect faults.

In contemporary publishing and digital typography, Schriftsatz describes the preparation of digital text for printing or on-screen presentation using desktop publishing and typesetting software, as well as typesetting engines and standards such as TeX/LaTeX. Considerations include readability, grid systems, margins, and typographic conventions across languages.

In legal practice in German-speaking jurisdictions, Schriftsatz also denotes a written submission or pleading prepared for a court, including statements of facts, legal arguments, and evidence; there are formal requirements, format guidelines, and deadlines.

Etymology: from Schrift (writing, script) and Satz (set, arrangement).