The use of fancy fonts can indeed create barriers to readability and comprehension, especially for audiences that include individuals with visual impairments, reading difficulties like dyslexia, or those who are not native speakers of the language in which the text is written. Here are some reasons why simpler fonts are often preferred for readability:
Clarity
Simpler fonts are generally easier to read, especially in longer documents or messages. They usually lack the intricate details and embellishments found in “fancy” fonts, making them less distracting.
Accessibility
Fancy fonts may not be easily deciphered by screen reading software, which is used by visually impaired individuals to interpret digital text. This makes your content less accessible to a portion of the audience.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Not all devices or platforms display fonts in the same way. A fancy font that looks good on one device might not even be supported on another, which could cause your text to default to a less readable or unintended font.
Professionalism
In many professional settings, using fancy or overly decorative fonts may come across as unprofessional. Standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, and Times New Roman are often preferred because they are clean and easy to read.
Attention to Content
The purpose of written text is often to convey a message or information. If the audience is distracted by a fancy font, they may pay less attention to the content itself.
Conclusion
However, it’s worth noting that fancy fonts can have their place. They are often used for branding, logos, or to set a specific tone or atmosphere. In short, the appropriateness of a font can largely depend on context. Just remember to consider your audience and the purpose of your message when choosing a font.
