Web and document accessibility for SERC

Font - type and size

Font type and size can affect the readability for sighted users. If you are working in Serckit, your font choices are made for you depending on the chrome you are using and the heading levels. However in creating documents, slideshows, and graphics including text, it is important to consider font choice.  Some considerations from WebAIM's Typefaces and Fonts guidance:

  • Use simple, familiar, and easily-parsed fonts.
  • Avoid character complexity
  • Avoid character ambiguity (make sure there aren't characters that look too similar to another character)
  • Use a limited number of typefaces, fonts, and font variations.
  • Consider spacing and weight (e.g., line spacing, spacing between individual characters, the impact of italicizing on spacing).
  • Avoid small font sizes.

Based on the following examples of characters, which font  is more accessible when comparing characters for ambiguity?
[CORRECT] The open shape of the letter C in this font is more easily distiguished from an O, making this the more accessible font choice for disambiguation.
[INCORRECT] The letter C in this font is more closed and appears similar to an O in the same font, making these characters more ambiguous and less accessible.