HOW is an excellent graphic design magazine with a focus on articles for the everyday designer, on topics ranging from careers to typography. The magazine offers valuable insights and suggestions that designers can put to use in the business and creative ends of their work.
Content
HOW is respected in the design community for providing useful advice and analysis relating to graphic design. The business end of being a designer, which is often the trickiest, is often a focus with articles on everything from tax strategies to hourly rates to meeting with clients. HOW also showcases top design work, though not as much as other popular magazines such as Print or Communication Arts, with feature articles and their design annuals.
Special Issues
HOW often devotes large portions of an issue to a specific topic, such as business or typography. These issues provide a thorough look into an aspect of design, and I often look forward to a business issue for tips and a look into current trends. The design of the issues themselves (and their always interesting covers) provides an easy and inspiring read.
Subscription Cost
As of this article, a 1-year (6 issues) subscription to HOW cost approximately $30 in the U.S. With an expensive newsstand price, the subscription is well worth it. They even offer a “satisfaction guarantee” with a refund for undelivered issues.