typearea — Type Area
Automatic computation of typographically optimal margins.
Last updated May 9, 2026
Overview
The typearea package computes the type area (the rectangle holding the text)
following classical typographic rules. It is automatically loaded by all KOMA classes
but can also be used on its own.
Basic principle
Instead of specifying fixed margins, you set a DIV factor:
\documentclass[DIV=12]{scrartcl}typearea splits the page into DIV equal strips and makes the type area DIV - 3
strips wide, producing harmonic proportions.
Recommended values
| Paper | DIV recommendation |
|---|---|
| A4, 10pt | 8–10 |
| A4, 11pt | 10–12 |
| A4, 12pt | 12–15 |
| A5, 10pt | 6–8 |
Auto
\documentclass[DIV=calc]{scrbook}Binding correction
\documentclass[BCOR=12mm,DIV=calc]{scrbook}Manual setting
\areaset[12mm]{14cm}{22cm}Standalone usage
\documentclass{article}
\usepackage[DIV=12,BCOR=10mm]{typearea}