Bastard Title

A bastard title is a term commonly used in the field of publishing referring to the first line of a paragraph or section that appears at the bottom of a page, separated from the rest of the text by a blank line or space. It is also known as a hanging title, stub title, or floating title.

Importance of Bastard Titles

Bastard titles serve several important purposes in writing and publishing:

1. Visual Organization: Bastard titles help visually organize a text by providing a brief preview or summary of the content that follows. They act as visual signposts, making it easier for readers to navigate and locate specific sections within a longer piece of writing.
2. Improved Readability: By breaking up large blocks of text and signaling the start of a new section, bastard titles improve readability. They provide visual breaks that allow readers to process information in smaller, more digestible chunks.
3. Aesthetics and Design: Including bastard titles in a publication adds a professional touch and enhances the overall design and layout. They contribute to the visual appeal of a document and can make it more engaging and visually appealing to readers.

When using bastard titles, it is important to ensure consistency in their placement and formatting throughout a publication for a unified and cohesive look.