Typography Lecture Notes

Understanding Typography

• Typography refers to the design and selection of text in design.
• Includes details of letter forms, arrangement into words, sentences, lines, and larger texts like paragraphs.
• Typography can affect how messages are perceived and make designs impactful.

Importance of Typography

• Essential for creating unmissable and unforgettable messages.
• Appropriately selected typefaces enhance communication and accessibility.

Fonts vs. Typefaces

• Typeface: A set of letters, numerals, and punctuation designed by a designer. Example: Helvetica.
• Font: A specific style, weight, or width within a typeface family. Example: Helvetica Bold.

Creating Hierarchy in Text

• Font Weights and Widths: Used to create impact and hierarchy.
• Text Size: Points are the unit of measurement for size.
• Visual Hierarchy: Organize and prioritize content with different sizes and weights (e.g., headlines, subheads, body copy).
• Squint Test: Used to check effectiveness of text hierarchy.

Typeface Categories

• Serif: Traditional, readable for long texts. Features small decorative details called feet.
• Sans Serif: Modern, minimalist, good for headers and screen texts.
• Display Fonts: Decorative, used for character and headers.
• Script Fonts: Mimic handwriting, elegant or edgy styles.
• Slab Serif: Pronounced feet, adds character.

Spacing and Alignment

• Letter Spacing (Tracking): Adjust overall letter spacing for readability.
• Kerning: Adjusts space between two letters.
• Line Length: Ideal line length is 45 to 75 characters.
• Leading (Line Spacing): Vertical space between lines, recommended at 120-150% of text size.
• Alignment: Arranging text, often left, centered, or right; left is easiest to read.

Pairing Fonts

• Using one typeface with style variants can create nuance.
• Pair fonts from the same category or combine different typefaces for character.
• Contrasts should be strong but complementary.

Key Takeaways

• Typography is essential for impactful design.
• Visual hierarchy and alignment organize designs.
• Learning to pair fonts will improve design quality.
• Mastery of typography enhances communication and design aesthetics.