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Mark Boulton writes a great article on some of the technicalities of typography which help us ensure that when writing copy for the web, it’s formatted in a way that is easily read.

He references three main areas where we can ensure we’re formatting correctly.

1. Measure - The measure is the width of the block of text. He suggests that it’s kept between 52 and 78 characters for legibility. This is a subjective observation and there is much research into line-lengths. However, measure is important when we consider it with other elements of typography.
2. Leading - Leading is the space between line heights and is pronunced ‘ledding’, like the metal, lead. The leading must always be greater than your word spacing. Mark suggests that a small measure requires less leading, and a wide measure increased leading to retain ease of reading. A great side observation made in the article too in in relation to the often controversial reversed out high-contrast white on dark designs we often see. The readability can be increased in these situations by increasing the leading, tracking and decreasing the font-weight! Thanks Mark :)
3. Tracking- Mark gives us one easy to remember suggestion here. Shorter line lengths, less tracking and vice versa

I found this a very helpful article and look forward to working it into our websites!

~ Rob