Is There an Extensive Amount of Text to Read?

If you have an extended amount of text, as in a lengthy newsletter, an annual report, or a book, you need a body typeface with maximum readability (see Chapter 2). Under the best printing conditions (high-resolution output, smooth paper, and a good printing press), try a classic oldstyle for best readability. You are reading Adobe Caslon Pro Regular right now, which is a classic oldstyle.

Under the worst printing conditions, try a typeface in the slab serif category. It will be extremely readable but will not fall apart in the reproduction process.

Compare reading these two samples, plus the two paragraphs above the samples. Do you get a feeling for which are easiest to read? Once you are conscious ...

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