White space research
Ivan | Wed, 2005-03-30 06:31Summary: In this study, reading performance with four white space layouts was compared. Margins surrounding the text and leading (space between lines) were manipulated to generate the four white space conditions. Results show that the use of margins affected both reading speed and comprehension in that participants read the Margin text slower, but comprehended more than the No Margin text. Participants were also generally more satisfied with the text with margins. Leading was not shown to impact reading performance but did influence overall user preference.
Great post! I always just thought of margins as something that made text "prettier", now I know its more important than just that!
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Jeff Yamada
Web Designer/Developer
www.hyperkulture.com
jeff@hyperkulture.com
aim: hyperkulture
====================
"participants read the Margin text slower"
this is what stunned me!
yeah, strange, but maybe they're more interested in reading the content when its easier to read? I'm a slower than average reader with well above average retention. Maybe when its easier to read they're more apt to really read it instead of scanning it?
I wonder though how much the eye physically has to spend re-focusing on each line, perhaps when it is floating off the margin it takes a little longer??? dunno.
====================
Jeff Yamada
Web Designer/Developer
www.hyperkulture.com
jeff@hyperkulture.com
aim: hyperkulture
====================
if you found it useful make sure you read this one too!
2004/09/learn-from-eye-tracking.html
wow, that was sooo cool!!!! I feel like twice the designer just seeing that!
====================
Jeff Yamada
Web Designer/Developer
www.hyperkulture.com
jeff@hyperkulture.com
aim: hyperkulture
====================