{"id":14107,"date":"2017-03-06T14:27:16","date_gmt":"2017-03-06T03:27:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/creately.com\/blog\/?p=14107"},"modified":"2023-02-28T21:39:11","modified_gmt":"2023-02-28T10:39:11","slug":"typography-tutorial-for-diagrams","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/creately.com\/blog\/education\/typography-tutorial-for-diagrams\/","title":{"rendered":"Typography Tutorial for Diagramming"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\"Typography<\/p>\n

Yes, the main point of diagrams is to visually guide readers <\/a>to better understand the inner workings of a particular subject or thing, but ultimately diagramming is about visually communicating a message<\/a> \u2013 and it is in effectively communicating your message where the importance of text in diagrams<\/a> lies.<\/p>\n

Typography, being both a science and art, entails that it is something you must have a deep learning of. From the history of typography<\/a> and the main types of fonts to the basic rules of typography and the intricacies of concepts like kerning, leading and tracking \u2013 and even further into the psychology of typography, it\u2019s a vast body of knowledge<\/a> that can take a lifetime to fully master.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s what makes it the exciting challenge that it is. But once you have a grasp of the intermediate concepts, that\u2019s when the fun begins as you are able to break perceived rules and let your creativity roam free<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Here is the typography tutorial for diagramming you should always refer to when drawing a diagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Learn the Basics<\/h3>\n

As with most things, learning the basics of typography is the first step towards its effective use. But even this could be a challenge with typography being such a complex art and science.<\/p>\n

As mentioned, there are basic principles of typography to take into consideration; like kerning (or the adjustment of character spacing), leading and tracking, which go far beyond choosing the right font and color schemes.<\/p>\n

There are also basic psychologies behind different fonts and typefaces \u2013 the understanding of which will enable optimal message communication.<\/p>\n

As noted by Creative Market<\/a> \u2013 a platform for handcrafted digital content \u2013 a common mistake for beginners is jumping right into their artistic whims without understanding the basics. This practice leads to making the same elementary mistakes over and over again. You don\u2019t want that.<\/p>\n

Choose the Right Font<\/h3>\n

Beyond readability, choosing the right font for your diagram is integral in communicating your message. As noted by Frank Denneman<\/a> \u2013 a leading resource person on storage technology and computer resource management \u2013 diagram objects and fonts go hand in hand when it comes to conveying your subject \u2013 the objects visualize the idea, while the font determines the tone of voice.<\/p>\n

It is important to note the two major categories of fonts\u2014serif and sans serif. The former evokes an older, albeit formal vibe, while the latter provides a cleaner, modern look.<\/p>\n

\"Choose<\/p>\n

While there is no specific rule of which of the two should you use in making diagrams, since you aim for readability, avoid curls or over complicated fonts.<\/p>\n

Once you decide on the typography, use only one font in a diagram, and use different font weights (light, medium or bold) when emphasis is needed.<\/p>\n

Apply a Proper Color Scheme<\/h3>\n

Picking a suitable color scheme is equally important to the overall message of a diagram, as it is used to indicate a relation between the different objects.<\/p>\n

Color scheme tips:<\/p>\n