Serif typefaces are like the ones in this paragraph (if your browser is set with default fonts). They have the little serifs on the edge of the type in order to aid in reading recognition of characters. Serif typefaces are great for longer text because they help the reader's eye to focus more easily on the words being displayed. But in headlines, serif typefaces can make the headlines appear too busy. That's why many good designs use sans-serif (meaning no serif) typefaces for headlines. Sans-serif typefaces are simple yet elegant in design. Since simplicity is really the key to overall effective and attractive designs, until you learn more about the basics of good design, it's better to follow the standard uses of serif and sans-serif typefaces by using them in the manner described above.

In addition to knowing which typeface to use in the body or headline text, there is one other standard rule of typefaces you need to be aware of. Never mix more than one serif typeface with one sans-serif typeface. You only need two typefaces to insure a standardized style that leads the reader where you want them to go. And because most typefaces have bolding and italics, you don't need any other typefaces to emphasize additional points you want to make.

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D. Schroeder is Project Designer for OverNight Graphics, and a Former Graphics Communication Instructor.
(Copyright 1995, OverNight Graphics)