If you think fonts are just handwritings, think again. Every font has its own personality and purpose. There is a reason why legal notices are not written in the same font as children’s books.
Typography is not just the way words are written. It is more than that. Typography is what sets the tone for your write-up. Whether it is a billboard ad or a social media post, correct typography is essential to deliver your message correctly. Here is a short guide that we have whipped up for you to understand the hidden meaning behind different font types.
Comic Sans
As the name suggests, the font type Comic Sans is comic in nature. In fact, it was actually inspired by comic books. The Comic Sans font has a casual and informal tone. Hence, when you use this font, make sure that you are not writing anything serious or formal. For example, avoid using Comic Sans in legal notices or medical reports. And definitely, avoid using it in someone’s memorial. This world’s favourite font is best used in children’s books, birthday invites for kids, comic strips, jokes and anything that is fun, casual and informal.
Arial
The Arial font was made as a clone of Helvetica- the world’s most popular font. It is straight, clean, simple and highly readable. Use Arial to communicate information or facts like in reports, magazines, newspapers, advertisements and other promotional material.
Times New Roman
Times New Roman is a serious font because of its solid structure. This font is somewhat old style and is used in books, printing and other publishing material because it is very clear. Anything written in Times New Roman appears to be a serious matter. Use it to write medical reports and legal stuff. The look and anatomy of this font give the text an important and sincere vibe. Use Times New Roman when you are writing a satirical piece. It will appear funnier and angrier as compared to written in any other font.
Helvetica
Helvetica defies the whole point of this article. Helvetica was designed on the belief that the meaning of the text should be in the content and not in the typeface. And thus, Helvetica was born. A completely neutral font whose clarity is second to none, Helvetica soon became the hallmark in the world of typography. It has no intrinsic meaning of its own. And that is why it became the most loved fonts for graphic designers and brands. Apple is known for its simple design and it is no surprise that Apple uses Helvetica across all its products and communications.
Helvetica is a truly no-bullshit font. Use it for signage, logos, health warnings and government or official publications. But that does not mean that you should use Helvetica anywhere and everywhere. Use it when you want to let your content do all the talking and you don’t want your font type to convey any hidden messages.
There are a thousand more fonts in the world, and every one of them says something or the other (except Helvetica, of course). The best way to find out what font to use is by trial and error. Design your piece with shortlisted fonts and get an opinion from a non-designer if you are not sure. And next time you see a street sign or read a good news from your doctor, notice what font was used and how it made you feel.
Happy typing!
