Serif and Sans-Serif Typefaces
by Dr. D. Schroeder
Serif typefaces are
like the ones in this paragraph (if your browser is set with
default fonts). They have the little serifs on the edge of the type
in order to aid in reading recognition of characters. Serif
typefaces are great for longer text because they help the reader's
eye to focus more easily on the words being displayed. But in
headlines, serif typefaces can make the headlines appear too busy.
That's why many good designs use sans-serif (meaning no serif)
typefaces for headlines. Sans-serif typefaces are simple yet
elegant in design. Since simplicity is really the key to overall
effective and attractive designs, until you learn more about the
basics of good design, it's better to follow the standard uses of
serif and sans-serif typefaces by using them in the manner
described above.
In addition to knowing which typeface to use in the body or
headline text, there is one other standard rule of typefaces you
need to be aware of. Never mix more than one serif typeface with
one sans-serif typeface. You only need two typefaces to insure a
standardized style that leads the reader where you want them to go.
And because most typefaces have bolding and italics, you don't need
any other typefaces to emphasize additional points you want to
make.
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D. Schroeder is Project Designer for
OverNight Graphics, and a Former Graphics Communication
Instructor.
(Copyright
1995, OverNight Graphics)
