When it comes to typography, the terms "kerning" and "tracking" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Kerning refers to the process of adjusting the space between two specific characters, usually to improve the overall appearance of a word or phrase. Tracking, on the other hand, involves adjusting the space between all characters in a block of text, which can affect the overall density and readability of the text. In this article, we will explore five tips that highlight the differences between kerning and tracking, and provide guidance on how to use them effectively in your design work.
Key Points
- Understanding the difference between kerning and tracking is crucial for effective typography.
- Kerning is used to adjust the space between specific character pairs, while tracking adjusts the space between all characters.
- Proper kerning can improve the readability and aesthetic appeal of headings and titles.
- Tracking can be used to create a more cohesive look in body text, but over-tracking can lead to poor readability.
- Experimenting with different kerning and tracking values can help you find the perfect balance for your design.
Tip 1: Understand the Difference Between Kerning and Tracking
Kerning and tracking are two distinct concepts in typography, and understanding their differences is essential for effective design. Kerning is used to adjust the space between two specific characters, usually to improve the overall appearance of a word or phrase. For example, the characters “A” and “V” may require a negative kerning value to prevent them from appearing too far apart. Tracking, on the other hand, involves adjusting the space between all characters in a block of text, which can affect the overall density and readability of the text. By understanding the differences between kerning and tracking, you can make informed decisions about how to use them in your design work.
Character-Specific Kerning
When it comes to kerning, it’s essential to consider the specific characters you’re working with. Some character pairs, such as “TA” or “AW”, may require a negative kerning value to prevent them from appearing too far apart. Others, such as “MM” or “WW”, may require a positive kerning value to create a more even spacing. By adjusting the kerning values for specific character pairs, you can create a more cohesive and visually appealing look in your headings and titles.
| Character Pair | Kerning Value |
|---|---|
| TA | -10 |
| AW | -5 |
| MM | 5 |
| WW | 10 |
Tip 2: Use Kerning to Improve Readability
Kerning can be used to improve the readability of your text, especially in headings and titles. By adjusting the space between specific character pairs, you can create a more even spacing and prevent characters from appearing too far apart. This can be especially important for text that will be displayed at larger sizes, such as headings or titles. By using kerning to improve readability, you can create a more visually appealing and effective design.
Contextual Kerning
Kerning is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the optimal kerning values will depend on the specific context in which the text will be displayed. For example, text that will be displayed on a screen may require different kerning values than text that will be printed. By considering the context in which the text will be displayed, you can make informed decisions about how to use kerning to improve readability.
Tip 3: Use Tracking to Create a Cohesive Look
Tracking can be used to create a more cohesive look in body text, by adjusting the space between all characters. This can help to create a more even spacing and prevent the text from appearing too dense or too sparse. By using tracking to create a cohesive look, you can create a more visually appealing and effective design.
Tracking Values
When it comes to tracking, it’s essential to use values that are appropriate for the specific font and context. For example, a tracking value of 10-20 may be suitable for a sans-serif font, while a tracking value of 5-10 may be more suitable for a serif font. By experimenting with different tracking values, you can find the perfect balance for your design.
| Font Type | Tracking Value |
|---|---|
| Sans-serif | 10-20 |
| Serif | 5-10 |
Tip 4: Experiment with Different Kerning and Tracking Values
Experimenting with different kerning and tracking values can help you find the perfect balance for your design. By trying out different values and seeing how they affect the appearance of your text, you can create a more visually appealing and effective design. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different values – it’s all part of the design process.
Iterative Design
Design is an iterative process, and experimenting with different kerning and tracking values is an essential part of that process. By trying out different values and seeing how they affect the appearance of your text, you can refine your design and create a more effective and visually appealing look.
Tip 5: Consider the Context and Purpose of the Text
When it comes to kerning and tracking, it’s essential to consider the context and purpose of the text. For example, text that will be displayed in a headline or title may require different kerning and tracking values than text that will be displayed in body copy. By considering the context and purpose of the text, you can make informed decisions about how to use kerning and tracking to create a more effective and visually appealing design.
What is the difference between kerning and tracking?
+Kerning refers to the process of adjusting the space between two specific characters, while tracking involves adjusting the space between all characters in a block of text.
How do I know what kerning values to use?
+The optimal kerning values will depend on the specific font and context in which the text will be displayed. Experimenting with different values and considering the context and purpose of the text can help you find the perfect balance for your design.
Can I use tracking to create a more cohesive look in body text?
+Yes, tracking can be used to create a more cohesive look in body text, by adjusting the space between all characters. However, over-tracking can lead to poor readability, so it’s essential to use values that are appropriate for the specific font and context.
