Did you know that, according to Hubspot, nearly 38% of people will stop engaging with a website if the content or layout is unattractive? The font choices you make can significantly influence your audience's understanding and retention of information.

Let's explore which fonts to avoid and what lettering styles to embrace for a more user-friendly experience.

Fonts That Hinder Readability

With the variety of fonts available today, it can be tempting to choose unique styles that stand out. However, some fonts may actually detract from the user experience.

Here are some common offenders:

• Comic Sans: Often seen as inconsiderate for serious topics, this casual font is best avoided in professional settings
• Papyrus: While it may have a unique look, this font can be hard to read and is frequently deemed as overused
• Courier New: The monospaced design can add an 'old-school' feel, but it lacks the elegance needed for contemporary web design
• Brush Script: This decorative font can be hard to decipher, especially in longer texts or smaller sizes
• Too Many Fonts: Using too many types or styles can overwhelm the reader and distract from the content
  
  

Opting for simpler, clean fonts can enhance the reading experience. Some widely-accepted fonts include Arial, Helvetica, and Georgia.

The Impact of Color on Readability

Another crucial aspect of website readability is color contrast. Text that blends into its background can make reading a chore.

Ensure a strong contrast between text and background colors. For instance, black text on a white background provides excellent visibility, while light gray on white can be frustrating.

Consider the following guidelines:

• Use Dark Text on Light Backgrounds: This is usually a safe choice that promotes clarity.
• Limit Text Colors: Stick to one or two colors for text to avoid confusing the reader.
• Avoid Using Overly Bright Colors: While vibrant hues can attract attention, they can also cause strain and reduce legibility.
  
  

Remember, less is often more when it comes to colors.

Choosing the Right Lettering Styles

When considering lettering styles, versatility and simplicity should take precedence. For body text, serif fonts (like Times New Roman) support readability due to their classic structure.

For headings, sans-serif fonts (like Arial) can create a modern feel that contrasts well with serif body text, offering variety without losing coherence.

Ensuring Accessibility

As you improve your website readability, it's vital to consider accessibility. This includes making sure your website copy font choices and colors are conducive to users with visual impairments. Here are a few steps to follow:

• Use Larger Font Sizes: Standard size should be a minimum of 16px for body text
• Incorporate Line Spacing: A line-height of 1.5 makes text easier to read
• Provide Alternative Text: Ensure images have descriptive alt text for screen readers

Embrace Clear Communication

Having readable websites can drastically enhance engagement and encourage visitors to absorb your content. By opting for simpler website fonts, the right lettering styles, ensuring strong color contrasts, and prioritizing accessibility, you make a statement about the value you place on your audience's experience.

As a leading IT company offering Managed IT Services, we at EnvisionIT Solutions understand the significance of these elements. Let us assist you in optimizing your website's design for improved readability and engagement. Visit our blog for more tips on elevating your digital presence!