15 Typefaces and Fonts

A typeface is a designed style of lettering (also called a “family”) that often includes a large set of variants called fonts. There are tens-of-thousands of available typefaces. Many must be purchased, while many more are offered for free. Public Sans (see right), is a free typeface that was designed by the U.S. Government to be used primarily for digital services. Typefaces are categorized according to their most prominent design features. The basic categories of professional quality typefaces are serif and sans serif. More designerly typestyles that are not often used professionally outside of logos are script and decorative typefaces.

Serif

Sans Serif

Typefaces that do not have extra strokes are categorized as sans serif and are generally used for writing that will be presented on a screen. American highway signs also use sans serif fonts because those typefaces are faster to read. Some popular sans serif fonts include Helvetica, Arial, Calibri, and Century Gothic.

There are many other typefaces that are not often found in professional writing except for occasional use in branding or marketing materials. Even then, they should be used sparingly and not for general purpose.

Scripts

Typefaces that appear more like handwriting are categorized as script. These are not typically used for professional writing outside of design because they are more difficult to read.

Decorative

These typefaces are often used for graphical works such as posters and not for routine professional writing.