Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Avoid using condensed or extended faces for body copy. For the letterforms to be eas-
ily recognized, the space in and around the letters is crucial at small sizes. Distorting
letters by altering the proportions means they do not appear familiar to us and so re-
tards reading. Type families may include extended or condensed fonts whose propor-
tions fall within the accepted range, but it is best to avoid these if possible for large
amounts of body text.
A skilled information designer follows a logical process to select an appropriate
typeface, scale letterforms and place them sympathetically in a layout. The ability to
prioritize information into understandable hierarchies based on the rules of good ty-
pographic practice results in clear and concise design that the audience can recognize
and interpret immediately.
For optimum legibility, do not set body text in all capital letters as this hinders the
speed at which you can read. A combination of upper- and lowercase letters produces
a more readable piece of typography, since we recognize word shapes not individu-
al letters. The pattern of ascenders and descenders provides an easier way of recog-
nizing the words and so aids legibility. TEXT SET IN ALL CAPITALS DOESN'T
HAVE THE SAME RHYTHM, AS ALL THE LETTERFORMS ARE THE SAME
HEIGHT. For this reason, it is harder to recognize word shapes in large amounts of
text. It is possible to set short passages of text in uppercase successfully. However,
when text is set in uppercase the characters may look 'squashed'. In these instances, it
may require some extra word spacing or tracking to make it more visually appealing
and readable.
Weight, size and scale
Typefaces are produced in many different weights. A quality font family will range in
weight from extra-light or hairline, through roman, medium and bold into extra-bold
and black versions. Fonts designed for screen-based use are also available in a variety
of weights. Establishing the correct weight, size and scale of typographic elements
for messages is key to good information design. It is beneficial to exercise restraint
in the design of typographic information. Overcomplicating only confuses the reader
and degrades the information presented.
