Aldus-Guide-to-Basic-Design

Serif and Sans Serif Type

Use both typeface classes selectively to compliment each other. There are two general categories of typefaces: serif and sans serif. serif type

Serif type is characterized differentiated strokes and by tiny cross-lines at the ends of the main letter strokes termed “serifs”. Serif type is ideal for body copy, as the cross-lines contribute an easy letter-to-letter transition for the reader’s eyes. sans serif type Sans serif type exhibits uniform strokes and lacks serifs. These typefaces are considered more generic and tend to have a bolder presence in a publication—they are an ideal choice for headlines and subheads .

Limit Your Typefaces

Use no more than two typefaces.

Do not mix too many typefaces on a page or in a publi- cation, as confusion will rapidly set in. Consistency in the implementation of typefaces throughout your publication for headlines, subheads, body copy and captions is perhaps the single most important factor in readability. Keeping your use of typography concise and consis- tent with no more than three typefaces will allow the reader to readily establish your pattern of communication.

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THE ALDUS GUIDE TO BASIC DESIGN