082 Legibility
The visual clarity of text, generally based on size, typeface, contrast, line length, and spacing.
• Use 9- to 12-point type for high-resolution media such as print. Smaller type is acceptable when limited to captions. Use larger type for low-resolution media.
• Use clear typefaces that can be easily read. There is no performance difference between serif and sans serif typefaces, so select based on aesthetic preference.
• Favor dark text on a light background for optimal legibility. Avoid patterned or textured backgrounds.
• Make line lengths 10–12 words per line, or 35–55 characters per line.
• Set leading (space between text lines, baseline to baseline) to the type size plus 1–4 points. Favor proportionally spaced typefaces to ...
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