Choosing the right font size and line spacing is crucial for readability and the overall aesthetic appeal of any document, website, or design project. While seemingly minor, the difference between "38p" and "38" in typography can significantly impact the final visual outcome. This article delves into the specifics of these notations, clarifying their meaning and illustrating their practical implications.
Deciphering the Notation: Points vs. Units
The key difference lies in the units of measurement. "38p" refers to 38 points, a traditional typographic unit. "38" on the other hand, is ambiguous without further context. It could represent 38 pixels, 38 millimeters, or 38 of any other arbitrary unit, depending on the software or system being used. This inherent ambiguity makes "38p" the far more precise and reliable specification, especially in professional contexts.
Points (p): A Consistent Standard
Points, specifically PostScript points (pt), are a consistent and widely understood unit of measurement in typography. One point equals 1/72 of an inch. This standard ensures that regardless of the screen or printer used, the rendered text maintains a relatively consistent size. Using points guarantees predictability and prevents inconsistencies arising from different screen resolutions or device settings.
The Ambiguity of "38"
The lack of a unit specification with "38" leaves room for significant variations. A "38" in pixels will appear much larger on a low-resolution screen than on a high-resolution display. Similarly, "38" millimeters will translate to a much larger font size than "38" points. This unpredictability makes "38" a less reliable choice for specifying font size, especially when consistency across platforms is vital.
Practical Implications and Use Cases
The choice between "38p" and "38" has practical ramifications for several applications:
1. Print Design:
For print materials, using points ("38p") is essential. Print designs rely on precise measurements to guarantee accurate reproduction. The consistent nature of points ensures that the intended font size is accurately represented during printing, regardless of the printer or its settings.
2. Web Design:
While points are understood in web design, pixels (px) are more commonly used for font sizes. However, the use of "em" or "rem" units, relative to the parent element or root font size, is generally preferred for web design for responsiveness and scalability. "38" without context would be problematic here, making explicit unit specification crucial.
3. Software Applications:
Different software applications may interpret "38" differently. Word processing software, desktop publishing software, and graphic design programs may all handle the specification of "38" differently. Again, utilizing "38p" provides a clear and unambiguous instruction.
Conclusion: Precision and Consistency
In summary, using "38p" provides a level of precision and consistency that "38" simply cannot match. While "38" might be acceptable in informal or less demanding situations where the context is clear, for professional typographic work, print design, and ensuring cross-platform consistency, specifying the font size in points ("38p") is unequivocally the better and more reliable practice. It ensures predictability, accuracy, and avoids potential misinterpretations.
