Postscript

Definition

A postscript is an additional remark or piece of information added at the end of a document, often after the main content has been completed. In the context of vector graphics software, it refers to a page description language used primarily for printing and graphics. This format enables designers to create complex images and layouts that can be easily interpreted by printers and rendering devices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Postscript was developed by Adobe Systems in the 1980s as a means to standardize the printing process for complex graphic designs.
2. It allows designers to describe images in terms of geometric shapes and paths, making it ideal for high-quality printed materials.
3. Postscript files can be easily modified and manipulated, providing flexibility for designers when making adjustments to graphics.
4. Many modern printers and graphic design software still support Postscript, demonstrating its lasting relevance in the industry.
5. While newer formats like PDF have emerged, Postscript remains important for workflows involving professional printing and graphic design.

Review Questions

• How does Postscript enhance the capabilities of vector graphics software in design projects?
  • Postscript enhances vector graphics software by providing a robust framework for describing complex images and layouts. It allows designers to create scalable graphics that maintain quality at any size, which is essential for professional printing. By utilizing mathematical descriptions, Postscript ensures precision and detail in the final output, enabling higher quality visual presentations.
• Evaluate the impact of Postscript on the evolution of printing technology and graphic design workflows.
  • Postscript significantly impacted printing technology by standardizing how graphics are described and printed. Its introduction allowed for more complex layouts and better color management in printed materials. This shift not only improved the quality of print but also streamlined graphic design workflows, enabling designers to work more efficiently and with greater creativity in producing marketing materials, books, and magazines.
• Synthesize the role of Postscript in current graphic design practices compared to newer technologies like PDF.
  • Postscript plays a foundational role in current graphic design practices, particularly in professional environments that require high-quality outputs. While technologies like PDF have emerged with more user-friendly features for sharing documents across platforms, Postscript remains essential for its precision in print-ready documents. The relationship between these formats illustrates how traditional methods continue to influence modern techniques, as many designers still rely on Postscript for complex designs that require detailed specifications during printing processes.

Related terms

Vector Graphics:

Graphics that use mathematical equations to create shapes and lines, allowing for scalable images without loss of quality.

Page Description Language: A computer language used to describe the layout of a printed page, including text, images, and graphics.

Rendering: The process of generating an image from a model by means of computer programs, which is essential in converting vector graphics into a viewable format.