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This lecture note is a part of the course Fundamentals of Agricultural Extension Education (Ext 201) . Visit the main course page for complete class notes, practical lists, and study materials.
Developing Skills in the Preparation of Booklets - A Practical Guide
Introduction to Booklets in Agricultural Extension
Booklets are comprehensive, multi-page printed resources, typically containing 8–64 pages, designed to provide in-depth and practical agricultural knowledge. They serve as durable reference materials for farmers, extension agents, trainers, and students worldwide.
In the internationally accepted hierarchy of extension print media (FAO, 2018; Oakley & Garforth, 1985; Leeuwis & van den Ban, 2004), the progression is:
- Flyer → single sheet
- Leaflet → 1–4 pages
- Folder/Brochure → single sheet folded into 4–12 panels
- Pamphlet → 4–16 pages
- Booklet → 8–64 pages (comprehensive and illustrated)
- Technical Manual/Handbook → 65+ pages
Booklets integrate detailed text with photographs, diagrams, tables, and flowcharts, making complex technologies understandable and actionable. Their effectiveness is strongly supported by Dual Coding Theory (Paivio, 1986), which shows that combining verbal and visual information significantly improves comprehension and recall.
Historical Context and Evolution
Booklets originated in the early 20th century through the U.S. Land-Grant system and quickly spread globally via FAO, CGIAR centres, and national extension services. Over decades they have evolved from simple bulletins into highly structured, farmer-centred learning tools informed by communication research and field testing.
Even in the digital age, printed booklets remain essential in most rural areas because they require no electricity, work offline, and can be carried and consulted repeatedly in the field.
Role in Modern Extension
- Comprehensive Knowledge Delivery: Enable detailed exploration of complex topics
- Enduring Reference: Provide long-term resources for repeated use
- Structured Learning Pathway: Guide readers from basic to advanced concepts
- Technical Precision: Include specifications, calculations, and data tables
- Visual-Text Synergy: Greatly enhance understanding through integrated visuals
- Training Support: Serve as core material in farmer field schools and training programmes
- Standardized Dissemination: Ensure consistent messaging across regions and languages
Types of Agricultural Booklets
Booklets are the most comprehensive print medium in extension communication. They are used worldwide to deliver complete, in-depth technology packages. Below are the major types with real global and Indian examples.
Examples: “Maize Production in Eastern and Southern Africa” (CIMMYT), “Scientific Rice Cultivation” (IRRI/ICAR), “Wheat Cultivation in Punjab & Haryana” (CIMMYT-India)
Typical Content:
- Variety selection and seed rate
- Land preparation and sowing calendar
- Nutrient and water management
- Integrated pest and disease management
- Harvesting and post-harvest handling
Examples: “Smallholder Dairy Farming” (ILRI), “Improved Backyard Poultry” (FAO/BAIF), “Scientific Goat Rearing” (CIRG-ICAR)
Typical Content:
- Breed selection
- Housing and feeding
- Vaccination and health calendar
- Breeding and reproduction
- Marketing and economics
Examples: “Drip Irrigation for Small Farmers” (IWMI/Jain), “Conservation Agriculture” (FAO), “Soil Health Management” (ICAR-IISS)
Typical Content:
- Soil testing and interpretation
- Water scheduling methods
- Micro-irrigation layout and maintenance
- Moisture and soil conservation practices
Examples: “System of Rice Intensification – SRI” (Cornell/WB), “Organic Vegetable Production” (NCOF), “Zero Budget Natural Farming” (India)
Typical Content:
- Natural pest control methods
- Compost and bio-fertiliser preparation
- Crop rotation and intercropping
- Organic certification steps
Examples: “Zero-Tillage Seed Drill” (CIMMYT), “Solar Dryer Construction” (Philippines/India), “Hermetic Storage Bags” (Purdue/PICS)
Typical Content:
- Equipment specifications
- Step-by-step operation
- Maintenance schedules
- Safety precautions
Examples: “Climate-Smart Village Guides” (CCAFS), “Drought Management” (CRIDA), “Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration” (Africa/India)
Typical Content:
- Weather forecasting use
- Stress-tolerant varieties
- Contingency cropping plans
- Crop insurance basics
Planning and Content Development
Successful booklets are never written by guesswork. They are the result of systematic planning that combines farmer needs, scientific accuracy, and communication principles used worldwide (FAO, 2018; Leeuwis & van den Ban, 2004).
Comprehensive Planning Process
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Needs Assessment
Conduct surveys, focus group discussions, and field visits with farmers and extension workers to identify real knowledge gaps and priority topics.
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Audience Analysis
Understand literacy level, primary language, age group, gender, farm size, and how farmers will actually use the booklet (in the field, at home, during training, etc.).
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Content Outline
Create a clear chapter-wise structure that moves logically from “What & Why” to “How to do it” and ends with “What to do when things go wrong”.
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Research and Validation
Collect latest recommendations from research institutions (ICAR, SAUs, CIMMYT, IRRI, ILRI, etc.) and validate them with progressive farmers and local extension staff.
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Visual Planning
Decide which concepts need photographs, diagrams, flowcharts or tables. Follow Dual Coding Theory (Paivio, 1986) — every major point must have a visual support.
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Review Framework
Plan at least three review rounds: (1) Technical experts, (2) Extension specialists, (3) Sample farmers (read-aloud testing).
Content Planning Checklist
Booklet Structure and Organization
A well-organized booklet follows a logical flow that guides the farmer from basic understanding to confident action. The structure below is used worldwide by FAO, CIMMYT, IRRI, ILRI and leading extension systems.
Standard Booklet Structure (Example: 32-page booklet)
Chapter Organization Principles
Progressive Learning
Start with “Why this matters” → “What to do” → “How to do it” → “What if problems occur”
Consistent Chapter Format
Every chapter has: Objectives → Key points → Step-by-step → Summary → Self-check questions
Modular Design
Each chapter can be read independently
Visual Integration
One strong visual on every spread (Dual Coding Theory)
Practical Focus
Include real farmer examples, cost-benefit tables, checklists
Easy Navigation
Running headers, thumb index tabs (optional), clear page numbers
Design and Layout Principles
Good design is not decoration — it is functional. It must work under direct sunlight, with dusty hands, and for readers with limited literacy (FAO, 2018; ILRI style guides).
Essential Design Elements
Design Specifications
Global Best-Practice Specs
- Body text: 12–14 pt (never below 11 pt)
- Headings: 16–24 pt bold
- Line spacing: 1.4–1.6
- Margins: minimum 15 mm all sides
- Visuals: 30–40 % of total area
Field-Proven Tips
- Black text on white background
- Rounded corners on cover
- Matt lamination (no glossy)
- Test print readability under direct sun
Photography
- Real local farmers & fields
- 300 dpi minimum
- Clear captions + scale where needed
Illustrations & Diagrams
- Simple line drawings
- Consistent style throughout
- Numbered steps with arrows
Do's and Don'ts
Design Do's
- Use minimum 12 pt body text
- Keep 30–40 % visuals
- Use matt laminated cover
- Test in sunlight before final print
Design Don'ts
- Never go below 11 pt font
- Don’t overcrowd pages
- Avoid glossy paper for field use
- Don’t use more than 4 colors
Production Process
Quality production at affordable cost is the final step that decides whether farmers will actually keep and use the booklet for years. The workflow below is followed by FAO, CGIAR centres, ICAR, MANAGE, and most successful extension programmes worldwide.
Production Workflow
Final Content Editing
Technical editing + language simplification (6th–8th grade level) + farmer readability test.
Visual Finalisation
All photos and diagrams checked for 300 dpi, proper captions and local relevance.
Professional Layout
Use free Scribus or Canva (for beginners) / Adobe InDesign (professional). Export print-ready PDF/X-1a.
Internal Proofreading
At least two rounds by different team members.
Field Proof Copy
Print 5–10 copies and give to real farmers for 2 weeks → collect feedback on readability and durability.
Pre-press Check
Bleeds 3 mm, colour mode CMYK, all fonts embedded, crop marks on.
Bulk Printing
Offset printing is cheapest above 500 copies. Choose printer experienced with extension materials.
Quality Control & Packing
Random sample check of colour, cutting, binding. Pack in waterproof bundles for transport.
Binding & Paper Choices (Global + Indian Practice)
| Option | Cost | Durability | Best Use | Common in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saddle-stitching (stapled) | Lowest | Good up to 48 pp. | Most booklets (16–48 pp.) | India, Africa, Asia |
| Perfect binding (glued) | Medium | Very good | 32–80 pp., premium look | MANAGE, some KVKs |
| Spiral / Wiro | Higher | Excellent (lays flat) | Field record books, training manuals | Farmer Field Schools |
| 80–90 gsm inside pages | Lowest | Acceptable | Budget projects | Most Indian states |
| 100–120 gsm inside pages | Medium | High durability | Long-term reference | ICAR, CIMMYT, FAO |
| 250–300 gsm matt laminated cover | Standard | Excellent | All good booklets | Universal choice |
Practical Tips from the Field:
• Always choose matt lamination on cover — glossy reflects sunlight and gets scratched fast.
• Rounded corners prevent dog-ears and damage in pockets.
• Print 1,000–5,000 copies at once — cost per booklet drops dramatically.
• Keep total weight under 150 g for easy carrying and low postal cost.
Distribution and Utilization
The best booklet in the world is useless if it never reaches the farmer’s hands or pocket. Successful programmes worldwide (FAO, CIMMYT, ICAR-MANAGE, State Departments) use multiple channels so the booklet becomes a regular companion in the field.
Strategic Distribution Channels (Global + Indian Practice)
| Channel | Advantages | Reach | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farmer Training Programmes & FFS | Captive audience · Immediate explanation · Hands-on use during training | High impact, limited numbers | All technical booklets |
| KVKs, ATMA, Extension Offices | Farmers visit regularly · Staff can explain difficult sections | Thousands per year | Reference + new technology booklets |
| Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) & Cooperatives | Trusted network · Bulk distribution easy · Members actually use it | Very cost-effective | Enterprise & marketing booklets |
| Agricultural Mela, Kisan Mela, Demonstrations | Huge footfall · High excitement · Instant demand | 10,000+ in one day | New varieties, climate-smart practices |
| Input Shops & Agro-dealers (free with purchase) | Farmers already buying inputs · Dealer explains while selling | Very high reach | Crop production guides, seed treatment |
| NGOs, CSR Projects, Watershed Programmes | Targeted to poorest farmers · Door-to-door possible | High equity | Organic farming, water management |
| Schools, ITCs, Polytechnics, SAUs | Students become future messengers | Long-term impact | Educational & foundational booklets |
Proven Distribution Example (Used by MANAGE & many states)
1,000 copies of “Scientific Wheat Cultivation” booklet → 100 KVKs (10 copies each) → each KVK trains 50 lead farmers → each lead farmer shares with 10 neighbours → reaches 50,000+ farmers in one season at almost zero extra distribution cost.
Practical Assignments
Complete these hands-on assignments to master booklet development skills used worldwide.
Assignment 1: Full Booklet Planning
Select any technology/topic and prepare a complete 32-page booklet plan including: title, target audience analysis, 5–7 learning objectives, detailed chapter outline, visual plan, and review team list.
Assignment 2: Write One Complete Chapter
Write and design one full chapter (4–6 pages) on any topic (e.g., “Land Preparation for Rice”). Include text, 4–6 visuals, step-by-step process, farmer case study, and self-check questions.
Assignment 3: Design Cover + 8 Inside Pages
Using Canva/Scribus/InDesign, design the cover + first 8 inside pages (title page to first chapter) applying all design rules (typography, grid, colour, visuals).
Assignment 4: Production Costing & Printer Negotiation
Prepare detailed cost estimate for printing 1,000 copies of a 32-page full-colour booklet. Get real quotations from at least two printers and suggest the most cost-effective option.
Assignment 5: Field Testing & Impact Evaluation
Print 20 copies of any existing booklet → distribute to farmers → after 30 days collect feedback using a simple questionnaire → write a 2-page report on what farmers liked, used, and suggested changing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal page range for a farmer booklet?
16–48 pages is the global sweet spot. 8–16 pp. feels like a leaflet; above 48 pp. becomes heavy and costly. Training booklets can go up to 64 pp.
How to make booklets last many seasons in the field?
Use 100–120 gsm inside pages, 250–300 gsm matt laminated cover, saddle-stitch or perfect binding, and rounded corners. Many organisations now add a thin plastic sheet as outer cover.
What should be the reading level?
Aim for Class 6–8 level. Test with the Flesch-Kincaid score (target 60–70). Always do a “read-aloud” test with 10 real farmers.
How often should we update a booklet?
Review every year. Full reprint every 3–4 years or when major technology changes (new variety, new pest, new policy).
Most common mistakes in booklet making?
Too much text, too few visuals, technical jargon, no farmer testing, glossy cover, no distribution plan, printing only 200 copies (very expensive per unit).
How to reduce printing cost drastically?
Print minimum 2,000–5,000 copies at once, use only 2–4 colours, standard A5 size, 80–100 gsm paper, saddle-stitch, share print run with another organisation.
Should we add QR codes and digital links?
Yes! Add QR codes on cover and important pages linking to 2–3 minute demonstration videos. Works very well where farmers have basic smartphones.
How to ensure farmers actually use the booklet?
Include tear-out checklists, blank record pages, coloured ribbons as bookmarks, success stories of local farmers, and train extension staff to teach from it.
References and Further Reading
- FAO (2018). Guidelines for Designing Effective Extension Materials
- Oakley, P. & Garforth, C. (1985). Guide to Extension Training. FAO
- Leeuwis, C. & van den Ban, A. (2004). Communication for Rural Innovation. Blackwell
- Paivio, A. (1986). Mental Representations: A Dual Coding Approach. Oxford University Press
- Rogers, E.M. (2003). Diffusion of Innovations, 5th Edition. Free Press
- CIMMYT & ICAR (2020–2024). Various farmer booklets & style guides
- MANAGE (2023). Extension Material Development Guidelines
- ILRI & Heifer International. Smallholder Dairy Series (excellent design examples)
- CCAFS-CGIAR. Climate-Smart Village Booklet Series
All booklet examples mentioned in this guide are real publications successfully used by farmers in India, Africa, Asia and Latin America.
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