HomeFundamentals of Document Design
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Type Samples: Size to Line Spacing at 4 Different Measures

The type samples on the following pages are set in Times Roman and show type size to leading (line spacing) proportions at four different measures (line lengths). The meaures 12 pt, 18 pt, 24 pt, and 27 pt represent those commonly used in document design. The 12 - pt sample is the narrowest column that would generally be used to set text type, and 27 pt is the widest.

In all measures, the middle sample is the “best” choice, i.e., the most readable when set to that measure. The other examples show visual comparisons of type size and leading choices that would not be considered as easily read at that measure.

NOTE: Read the section on Text Color and Texture next. Even though this class is basically about print-based design, the above samples either seen on a computer monitor, or printed on paper still clearly show the importance of "color" and proportions and it's effect on readability.
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