I'm going to assume if you're reading this article you are already familiar with the basic HTML codes to format text. I'm going to come at the subject more from a designers/functionality point of view than a technical one.

First, it is important to understand why text is formatted. Basic formatting should improve readability. Spacing and font size is important. If you have small text squashed into one chunk then it is hard to read. Alternatively, if you have large font with wide spacing, it can also be hard to read.

Here's some things to bear in mind:

1. Font Size/Screen Resolution

People have different sized monitors, and different screen resolutions. If you're formatting text size using pixels, switch to something more relative. If you're a die-hard who wants total control, remember to keep it larger than 12 pixels.

2. Line spacing

Generally speaking, you should always line-break between paragraphs when formatting text for online viewing. You can also increase your overall line spacing, which can be useful when there is a lot of text to be presented - in the case of academic essays etc.

3. Colour-scheme

Text should be reasonably contrasted against the background. White text on black is very hard to read (but can have a strong impact), so keep it short and punchy. Black on white is still the best format for readability.

The second thing to consider when formatting text is the overall look. Do you want it to appear traditional and weighty? Or cutting-edge and trendy? This is where we can start bending the rules a bit, to create certain effects.

1. Font-choice

Different fonts say different things. Remember: custom fonts will not usually be loaded onto your viewers computer! Stick with the tried and tested.

2. Colour-scheme

We covered this in readability - but colours can make a massive difference to your image. Avoid the 'day-glo rainbow' look, but experiment with different tones and shades. Grey and muted tones can look professional and artistic, bold colours can attract attention and make an impact.

3. Special Effects

For smaller chunks of text that you want to attract you can experiment with special effects - from underlining, or changing the font colour, to separating out into it's own little box with special formatting all of its own. I often increase the letter spacing on my headlines and 'special' text as it gives it a unique look without me needing to increase the size too much.

I hope this gives you some ideas on the best ways to format your text. Always remember that readability is the most important thing! Avoid faint, small or overworked text at all costs!

Learn more about this author, Suzanne Fleming.
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