typography

Question 1

what are typefaces

Answer 1

• typeface can influence the look and feel of your composition or project
• there are a myriad of typefaces to choose from
• limit typeface choices to two or three at most, and use in a consistent manner throughout document

Question 2

types of typefaces (fonts)

Answer 2

• serif
• sans-serif
• modern
• slab-serif
• script
• blackletter
• display

Question 3

what are serif fonts

Answer 3

• fine dashes at the ends of strokes of each letter.
• they improve readability bc they guide the eye to the next letter
• not recommended to be viewed on web pages on low resolution computers.

Question 4

what are sans-serif fonts

Answer 4

• letters without dashes at the end of the letters
• used for headings or smaller blocks of text
• use sans-serif for photocopies and prints bc strokes can get lost and letters become difficult to read

Question 5

describe type sizes

Answer 5

• body texts should be between 8-12 points
• headlines and subheadings should be large enough to provide good contrast

Question 6

describe alignment + examples

Answer 6

• can be left, right, centre aligned or justified
• avoid mixing different types
• make sure indented items are aligned accurately with bullets and numbering
• avoid widows
• justified is most readable but:
  
  • can cause problems with letter spacing
  • can cause uneven word spacing

Question 7

describe the format - hierarchy

Answer 7

• info should be in levels of importance
• info should be clearly organised, with headings, subheadings etc.

Question 8

describe the format - contrast

Answer 8

• use typeface combinations that are really different
• headlines, subheadings etc must stand out from rest of info

Question 9

what is the main difference between serif and sans-serif typefaces

Answer 9

• presence or absence of small decorative lines or strokes, known as serifs, at the ends of the characters.
• Serif fonts are generally associated with tradition, elegance, and readability in print, while sans-serif fonts convey a more contemporary, minimal, and straightforward aesthetic, particularly in digital mediums.

Question 10

what is hierarchy in typography and why is it important

Answer 10

• Hierarchy refers to the arrangement and visual ranking of different elements in a text.
• It is important because it guides readers’ attention and helps them navigate through the information.
  By using different font sizes, weights, and styles, hierarchy establishes the relative importance of various elements.

Question 11

how does type spacing help with readability

Answer 11

• Type spacing, refers to the adjustment of space between characters in a line or block of text.
• Proper type spacing can enhance readability by providing enough space for the eye to distinguish individual characters.
  It also helps to improve legibility and prevents letters from appearing crowded or cramped.

Question 12

how can typography enhance the overall design and communication of a text

Answer 12

• Typography plays a crucial role in visually conveying the tone, mood, and message of a text.
  
  • Well-chosen fonts, sizes, alignments, and hierarchy can enhance the overall aesthetics and readability of the design.
  • It helps to establish a visual identity, create emphasis, and guide the reader’s understanding and engagement with the content.