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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