But remember, use them sparingly or don’t use them at all. These highlighting tools, as well as many others, are properly used to signal importance, emphasis, even inflection (see paragraph one). One good way to infuse diversity into a document is via the use of italicized, bold, or underlined text. Your readers will thank you.Īlthough, in general, font use should be consistent throughout a project, variety is sometimes needed to break the monotony. So once you choose a font, be committed and use it throughout. Like the saying goes: three fonts is a crowd-on your reader’s attention. As a rule, never use more than two fonts in the same piece.
So don’t abuse it by using three or four different styles in the same document. Also, these fonts, among others, are TrueType-this means that what you see on the screen is exactly what you will see on the page.įont is a privilege, not a right. Unless it is truly warranted, tend toward simple, inconspicuous fonts like Times New Roman or Arial. Remember, your font is supposed to enhance your message, not sabotage it.
Keep this in mind when choosing a font or font mix. Remember, if your text is too small to read, it simply won’t get read. A warning though: font on your computer screen may appear larger than it actually is. Generally accepted writing guidelines for typical documents prescribe the use of 10-12 point font for the body, 14-48 point font for primary headings, and one-half of the primary heading point size for secondary headings. As for headings and titles, use upper case lettering whenever prescribed or necessary.
Avoid using all upper or lower case text anywhere in your document, as both can be difficult to read. To assist, presented here is a brief digest of useful font guidelines.Īs per tradition, for typical documents you should use upper and lower case text for the body of your work. This in mind, effective font should be chosen both carefully and strategically. Every day, writers discover that font choice is an excellent opportunity to make a mockery of their work. Remember, though, while font can (and should) be used for good, it can also be used for bad…impressions that is. Font is your first line of defense against reader apathy-and your first chance to really capture an audience, create a positive and lasting impression, and encourage continued interest. When utilized well, a font or font mix accomplishes four things: 1) focuses attention, 2) enhances readability, 3) sets a tone, and 4) projects an image. Is it big, bold, crisp, underlined, or colored? Is it spaced well? Is it even legible? These are all important questions-questions that any conscientious document creator must answer and act on. Put simply, font is the style of your typeface. And basically, the fundamental element of written communication is font.īut what exactly, you might ask, is font? Put technically, font is the interface between your ideas and your readers. So how can you enhance the quality of your presentation? Well, just like Coach used to tell you-put in your mouthpiece and start with the basics. Contrarily, untrained communicators don’t realize that style can, and often does, override substance-and corporate trash-cans nationwide brim with the ridiculed remains of their ransom-note-like resumes. They know that to achieve truly effective communication one must pay equal attention to how the content is presented. Expert communicators know that superb content is not enough. Unlike information conveyed personally, a written message is static. Presentation is crucial to all forms of communication-most of all when dealing with written communication. Because, quite simply, presentation matters. Why? Because communication is more than just words. Not any more than you find your state Congressperson sincere. Would you find a snickering salesperson persuasive? Would you find a monotone motivational speaker inspiring? No. To achieve maximum impact, it is essential that this dual communication consistently corresponds. Plus, you're going to love the finished product.Ĭommunication, both face-to-face and in writing, occurs on two levels: verbal and non-verbal.
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