3.3 Typography Basics

Typography is a fundamental aspect of design that influences readability, aesthetics, and the overall user experience. In Figma, mastering typography basics allows you to create visually appealing and effective designs. This section will cover key concepts related to typography in Figma.

Key Concepts

1. Font Selection

Choosing the right font is crucial for conveying the intended tone and message of your design. Figma offers a wide range of fonts, both system fonts and custom fonts. When selecting a font, consider factors such as readability, style, and the context of your design. For example, a sans-serif font like Arial might be better for a modern, clean design, while a serif font like Times New Roman could be more appropriate for a traditional or formal document.

2. Font Size and Hierarchy

Font size helps establish a visual hierarchy in your design, guiding the user's eye to the most important information. In Figma, you can adjust font sizes using the Properties Panel. Larger font sizes are typically used for headings and titles, while smaller sizes are used for body text and captions. Establishing a clear hierarchy ensures that users can quickly understand the structure and content of your design.

3. Line Spacing and Paragraph Settings

Line spacing, also known as leading, controls the vertical distance between lines of text. Proper line spacing improves readability and prevents text from appearing too crowded or sparse. In Figma, you can adjust line spacing in the Properties Panel. Additionally, paragraph settings such as alignment, indentation, and spacing between paragraphs can enhance the overall layout and readability of your text.

Examples and Analogies

Imagine you are designing a book. The font you choose would set the tone for the entire book. A playful, cursive font might be suitable for a children's book, while a bold, sans-serif font could work well for a technical manual. The font size would determine how the chapters and sections are organized, with larger sizes for chapter titles and smaller sizes for the main text. Line spacing would ensure that the text is easy to read, preventing the lines from overlapping or being too far apart. Paragraph settings would help maintain a consistent and professional layout throughout the book.

By understanding and applying these typography basics in Figma, you can create designs that are not only visually appealing but also easy to read and navigate.