When designing your website, one of the most important factors to consider is readability. If your website is easy to read, it will encourage visitors to stick around, and this will lead to a higher conversion rate. On the other hand, if your web content is tough to read, it will require more concentration and energy. This is frustrating for the user, and they will be more inclined to leave prematurely and seek information elsewhere. During the design process, you should consider the following:
Font Type
The type of font that you choose is important for website readability and will depend on the type of business you are promoting. For example, a legal firm will use a different font compared to a trendy clothing store or beauty salon.
Remember that printed media and online media will require the use of different kinds of fonts. While Serif fonts are popular in print, websites are better off using Arial, Lucida Sans, Verdana, and Helvetica. They are easier to read, and the spacing makes them easy to scan through if the user is in a bit of a hurry.
Font Size and Spacing/Structure
It shouldn’t come as any surprise that the size of the font you use is also incredibly important. You don’t want to make your visitors zoom in several times just so that they can read your site. You also don’t want them squinting at the screen. Choose a font that is large enough on mobile and desktop devices.
Space your sentences and paragraphs out properly so that they don’t blur together. Maintain a certain kind of format on each page so that they are all consistent with one another.
Colours
Colour choice is another important point. Some colours work well as backgrounds and text while there are others that simply won’t do. You should also understand that some colours work well together, and others fade into one another. For example, if you use two similar colours together, it could make the text tough to read. Using colours like turquoise or yellow for your text can be really hard on the eyes. Try a few different colours out and see which ones work best. Feel free to ask others for their opinion too.
Line Length
Keep your lines short so that they are easy to follow. If you use long lines, it will be difficult to read on desktop and mobile devices. With the number of users accessing the web from Smartphones and similar compact devices increasing, it’s important to keep this in mind. The best length to aim for would be between 50 and 60 characters.
Paragraph Length
Like line length, you will also need to keep your paragraphs reasonable in length. If they are too short, your site will be overrun by white space. If they are too long, you could lose your readers after just a few sentences.
Format and Images
Don’t be afraid to keep things interesting by adding images, infographics, graphs and lists. These are usually easier to follow than an endless sea of text.
Writing Style and Word Selection for Website Readability
Your writing style is also extremely important for website readability. Firstly, you need to ensure that your grammar and spelling are in order. Excessive errors will cause readers to lose interest, or they could misunderstand what you are trying to communicate.
Avoid the use of jargon. Not everyone is familiar with the terms and phrases of your trade. You wouldn’t want to alienate those new to your line of work.
Try not to use too many adverbs and adjectives, or to describe each point in excessive detail. Many readers will come across your website in search of information so try to get to the point. Don’t repeat ideas too many times. Only use repetition to continue with a particular idea.
Remember that shorter sentences are easier to read and understand. Much like taking a small bite of food; it’s easier to chew on than a large chunk. In much the same way, simple words are also easier to understand than long, complicated ones.
At Gilmedia, we understand all the intricate details involved in creating a top-quality, professional website. Contact our team today to get the most out of your website!