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Archiver > TMG > 2000-05 > 0957191039


From: bob gillis <>
Subject: [TMG-L:] Re: TMG-L: Font Handling Problem
Date: Mon, 01 May 2000 10:23:59 -0400


> fran jacobowitz wrote:
> >
> > The typeface ARIAL is very easy to read on a computer screen, because of
> > the clarity of the typeface. The letters are smooth, rounded, and for some
> > reason, easy to read on a screen.
> >
> > However, when printing on paper, it is always preferable to use a SERIF
> > typeface such as Times Roman. (Serif's are the little feet that can be
> > found on letters. They are most noticeable on letters like M, N, t, l, h.
> > Typefaces without Serifs, such as ARIAL are called SANS-serif.)
> >
> > It is a generally agreed upon typographical convention that Body Copy,
> > (long pages of text) should always be in serif typeface. The serifs provide
> > a break-up of the spacing, and physically make it easier for the human eye
> > to perceive.
> >
> > So, I would definitely recommend that anything printed on paper be done
> > in serif. Times Roman is one of the more readily recognizable of the serif
> > typefaces, and in recent years has, by default, become the computer
> > standard.
>
and JEFFREY OWENS wrote:

> Quite a long explanation of what seems to be your personal observations
> and preferences.
>
> I just did a most unscientific survey. Here in my messy office I picked
> up at random, (everything's at random) six catalogs and magazines, and
> six corporate annual reports. All twelve of my highly scientific survey
> were in ARIAL typeface.>

Fran told what good typographic designers say, not just her personal
observations and preferences.

Magazine editors and designers are more interested in catching the eye
and making a splash which is what the fancy typefaces do. I think WIRED
magazine is one of the worst examples of glitzy and very hard to read
magazine designs.
>
> What authority do you quote as your definitve pronouncement that Times
> New Roman is the world's most readable typface for English?
>

Jeff, read what she said again. If you disagree so strongly why don't
you find and quote some authorities that go along with you.

bob gillis

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