How to Use the Correct Fonts
As we move forward with adding web-based communication methods to traditional print-based ones, it becomes clear that modifications to existing standards for print are needed. This is particularly true of typography since conditions for the web are quite different than for print.
As with many things, today’s designer who understands the basics of typography will find it easier to make decisions about how best to arrange type on both the printed page and a web page. Let’s begin with the definition of a font. Although font and typeface are used interchangeably, the actual definition of a font is an alphabet (defined as upper and lower case letters, numerals, punctuation marks and symbols) in a single size, weight and style. A typeface is a family of fonts representing various sizes, weights and styles.
Learn how to use fonts correctly
Q and A: What is a Font Stack?
A font stack is a list of fonts in the order of preference for use on a web site. The font stack provides specific instructions to the web browser for how to make a font substitution if the web site viewer’s computer does not have a specified font installed.
Learn what a font stack is
Vocabulary: Font and Typography
Alphabet length: The length of an entire alphabet, A to Z, set in one row. The alphabet length of a font varies depending on the weight (i.e., light, medium, bold, black).
Body type: Type used for the main body of the page; usually measuring between 8 and 14 points.
Dingbats: a font consisting of symbols and line art images.
Learn more font and typography vocabulary
Idea Corner: Visualize the font first
To get a clear visual of how a font looks, use a pangram – a sentence that uses all the letters of the alphabet. A familiar pangram is “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.” A pangram can be set alone or repeated to create a block of type.
Learn more about trying out fonts
A Word From The Owner: Silicon Valley Businesses
As your printer, our job is to provide you with the tools you need to communicate with your customers and prospects so they will buy from you instead of the competition. You know we’re experts at developing and producing printed pieces, but did you know that we’re also developing skills in web-based communication?
Learn more about how we help local businesses in Sunnyvale and Silicon Valley
Tips and Tricks for Typing on Computers vs Typewriters
There are two holdovers from the days of typewriters that negatively affect the appearance of type in documents and on the web – the practice of putting two spaces after a period, and the use of underlining.
The use of two spaces after a period is due to typewriter fonts being monospaced. In a monospaced font, every letter takes up the same amount of space as every other. Putting two spaces after a period creates extra space and helps signal the reader that the sentence has ended. Great information for Silicon Valley Businesses.
Learn more about typing on a computer vs. a typewriter
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