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Content Readability is Essential
by: C.E. David
The content of your web site should
be written with readability in mind. Those who provide
written content that does not reflect an understanding
of internet readability research are losing an opportunity
to have their message heard more often and more clearly.
Studies demonstrate that the internet
poses very particular challenges and opportunities with
respect to how information is actually read.
There are many elements of readability
that require consideration.
Font choices (both in size and actual
font) can have an impact on readability. For instance,
research has demonstrated that fonts lacking serifs
outperform fonts with serifs. This revelation runs contrary
to the long-held understanding that fonts utilizing
serifs speed reading.
Previous research was conducted on
traditional page reading. An examination of readability
specific to computers reached opposite conclusions.
This underlines the importance of understanding readability
specifically in terms of computer and internet use.
Color choices, column widths, page
organization and other features are all being examined
as new research regarding web readability is conducted.
Anyone hoping to be successful with a content-rich site
must keep abreast of new studies and their conclusions.
There are other considerations particular
to writing content. Of course, all potentially visible
grammatical and spelling errors must be avoided. Content
providers should understand “scannability”
and the scanning habits of internet users. They should
also be fully aware of the structure types that aid
in readability and encourage visitor examination.
Content should be written in an appropriate
contextual voice. Marketing-heavy language requires
additional cognitive processing burdens on a reader,
reducing its effectiveness. Those who tailor their messages
in concise, objective language at an appropriate reading
level for their audience can achieve a better response.
Although achieving an understanding
of content readability requires time and research, it
is necessary for those who want to maximize their content’s
value to readers. Even great writers need to acquaint
themselves with new research and study regarding readability.
About The Author
C.E. David
Article Staff provides content and editing services
to sites of all types. http://www.articlestaff.netfirms.com/.
Article Staff blogs at http://articlestaff.blogspot.com/
articlestaff@usa.com
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