A brochure (also referred to as a pamphlet) is a type of leaflet. Brochures are most commonly found at places that tourists frequently visit, such as museums, major shops, and tourist information. Brochure racks or stands may suggest visits to amusement parks and other points of interest. Another type of brochure is interpersonal brochures, which are brochures based on other people.

The most common types of single-sheet brochures are the bi-fold (a single sheet printed on both sides and folded into halves) and the tri-fold (the same, but folded into thirds). A bi-fold brochure results in four panels (two panels on each side), while a tri-fold results in six panels (three panels on each side).

Brochures are often printed using four color process on thick gloss paper to give an initial impression of quality. Businesses may turn out small quantities of brochures on a computer printer or on a digital printer, but offset printing turns out higher quantities for less cost.

Compared with a flyer or a handbill, a brochure usually uses higher-quality paper, more color, and is folded.

Brochures are designed and used:

1. as a marketing tool to advertise services or products;
2. as an information providing tool to inform people about specific things like HIV/Aids, TB, etc.

When you design a brochure to sell or explain your products or services, you must remember that this brochure is going to "talk on your behalf" about your services or products that you offer. It is extremely important to make sure that your brochure gets the correct message across, is clear and, most important of all, sells or explains your product or service - which is your ultimate goal.

Professional brochure writing builds and expands on messages in ads, direct mailers, banners, flyers and billboards to build brands and corporate image. Use word pictures to create atmosphere. Use photos to break up content and tell a story that’s relevant to the product. Add captions to the photos. Research shows that captions are highly read and remembered, and add to the credibility of a photograph.