Checklist for excelence in web typography

Posted by Offer Tsuriel on October 26, 2009

1. Never use underline in body text as a reader will think it’s a hyperlink.
2. Avoid extensive use of italics as it is difficult to read on screen, but they can add variety.
3. Agree a standard for capitalization of headlines and link text. Generally, sentence case: ‘A.mazing new product released’ is best since it is most scannable. Title case ‘A.mazing New Product Released’ and all caps is ugly (and more difficult for readers to scan) . However, all caps can be attention grabbing if selectively used.
   
4. Headlines longer than three or four words may work best for SE~ purposes, so ensure font type size is not too large to support this or allow the design to support wrapping or sub-headlines.

 

5. Remember that many web browser users will increase their type sizes, so check that the design renders gracefully as type is enlarged (at least by a small amoun t).
6. The difference between heading point sizes has a distinctive effective on design. Use a small difference between them for a smooth effect and a large difference for a more distinct design.