Can we just agree fonts are important and move on to figuring out how to choose fonts when you know they matter but you can’t tell what works and what doesn’t?
How to choose fonts for your website when you’re not a designer
Why are fonts such a big deal? I know they are but I don’t “get” it. But I understand, at least, that it does matter. So I’m here to tell you fonts matter and I could try and tell you why but I’d only be plagiarizing because I don’t understand it.
OK so let’s just do this. When choosing fonts for your website choose it for readability over anything else.
Ugh, no fun right?
But think of it this way: website visitors are fickle. If they drop in and have to squint to read your words, they won’t bother. So choose function over form in this case.
But don’t think that means you can’t do something funky—it just needs to be legible.
There are four basic types to consider when you choose fonts.
Serif
These fonts have “feet” at the ends of their letters. These are known as more traditional fonts and it’s argued they’re easier to read in print.
Sans-Serif
These fonts don’t have “feet” at the ends of their letters and it’s argued they’re easier to read on pixel-based screens.
Script
These fonts are easy to recognize: cursive. These are interesting but can be difficult to read on a screen.
Decorative
These fonts are meant to grab attention and are not practical.
What I recommend when you choose fonts
When choosing fonts for your website try and stay with serif or sans-serif. Wondering what your options are? Check out Google Fonts. There are tons of options and they’re all web friendly. Pick out something you like in the safe zone and then, if you want, let’s move to the next step.
IF you want a secondary font, then you need to do something called font pairing. I find this part mind boggling, but others seem to understand it. If you know what you’re doing then go for it! But if you’re like me, wondering how to choose fonts for your website when you’re not a designer, stick to the basics. Serifs with other serifs. Sans-serifs with other sans-serifs.
There is an argument for having more than one font—it adds contrast.
Kind of interesting, right?
I have looked all over the Internet for helpful articles on pairing fonts for non-designers. One is for the visual learner—The Art of Combining Fonts, and the other is for ones who want a more scientific approach—Four Techniques for Combining Fonts.
People who are passionate about fonts will tell you they make you feel something and help form your brand personality. So let’s circle back to my original point: fonts are important. They are, trust me. Well, take my word for it. Well, just go with it.
Want to go deeper on branding? Check out Brand Your Blog A Step-by-Step Guide.
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