Studies of typographical factors influencing speed of reading. IX. Reductions in size of newspaper print

Abstract

Forms A and B of the Chapman-Cook Speed of Reading Tests were printed using Mergenthaler's Ionic newspaper linotype, 6 3/4 point on 7-point body. Reproductions by the planographic offset-printing process were made at original size and at various reductions (80, 50, and 30% of original size). When the curve showing average loss of legibility in words read per second for the various reductions in size is examined, we find that it shows a sharp drop (indicating decreased legibility) just beyond a size reduction of 50%. The conclusion is reached that reductions of this type to half-size may be made without undue loss of legibility. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)