Line height

Definition

Line height is the vertical spacing between lines of text in a paragraph, typically measured from the baseline of one line to the baseline of the next. Proper line height enhances readability by ensuring that text blocks are visually accessible and comfortable to read. It is influenced by factors such as typeface choice, font size, and the overall design aesthetic, which are all crucial when selecting and pairing typefaces for effective visual communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Line height is typically expressed as a multiple of the font size, like 1.5x or 2x, allowing designers to maintain consistent spacing across various sizes.
2. In most cases, a line height of 1.2 to 1.5 times the font size provides optimal readability for body text.
3. Adjusting line height can create different moods; tighter line heights can feel more compact and formal, while looser line heights can appear more casual and spacious.
4. Different typefaces have different x-heights and descender lengths, which means a standard line height may need adjustments based on the specific typefaces being paired.
5. Responsive design often requires line height adjustments at various screen sizes to maintain legibility across devices.

Review Questions

• How does line height impact the readability of text in editorial design?
  • Line height significantly affects text readability by controlling how easily a reader can follow lines without losing their place. A well-chosen line height can prevent text from feeling crowded or overly spaced, making it easier for readers to scan and absorb information. In editorial design, finding the right balance enhances user experience and keeps readers engaged with the content.
• In what ways do typeface selection and pairing influence decisions regarding line height?
  • Typeface selection impacts line height choices because different typefaces have varying characteristics, such as x-height and ascender/descender lengths. When pairing typefaces, designers must consider how these attributes will interact to ensure harmony in line spacing. For instance, a more condensed typeface may require a larger line height to maintain clarity compared to a broader typeface, necessitating thoughtful adjustments to achieve visual balance.
• Evaluate the role of line height in responsive design and its effect on user engagement across different devices.
  • Line height plays a critical role in responsive design as it needs to adapt to various screen sizes and resolutions while maintaining legibility. An appropriate line height ensures that text remains comfortable to read whether on a smartphone or desktop, which directly influences user engagement. If line height is too tight on smaller screens, users may struggle with readability, leading to frustration and increased bounce rates. Thus, designers must be strategic about adjusting line heights in their layouts to enhance usability across devices.

Related terms

leading: Leading refers to the space between lines of type, often used interchangeably with line height, but specifically pertains to the measurement of vertical distance in typography.

baseline: The baseline is an imaginary line upon which most characters sit, and it is crucial in determining line height as it influences how text is vertically spaced.

font size: Font size is the height of characters in a typeface, which directly affects line height since larger fonts may require more space between lines for optimal legibility.