Research task 2: Choosing a typeface

In Exercise 3, you have to choose a typeface for the text, but how do you choose a typeface? In Notes on Book Design, Derek Birdsall describes clearly how you can choose a typeface that is appropriate for your text. Read the section ‘ on choosing a typeface ’ in the book, Notes on Book Design, and use this as an approach in Exercise 3.

Notes from choosing a Typeface.

While reading through Derek Birdsall's section "On choosing a typeface", I made these notes.

• The typeface you choose for a project should be based not on the subject of the book, but on what the text is about. If the text contains dates, numbers or quotations, the right typeface needs to be considered.

• Choosing a bold serif will be suitable for readability, whereas bold sans-serifs are suitable for limited text.

• Most typefaces will print on uncoated paper however, some digital typefaces will need some adjusting for coated paper.

• Having the correct leading improves the readability of the text, usually 1/4 to 1/2 the x-height.

• Justified text is more visually comfortable for readers, and unjustified text may be better for captions because it offers a more distinct tone and texture.

References

Birdsall, D. (2004) Notes on Book Design. New Haven: Yale University Press pp. 186-187