Studies of typographical factors influencing speed of reading. V. Simultaneous variation of type size and line length

Abstract

Five groups of 80 students each read selections from the Chapman-Cook Speed of Reading Tests set in type varying in size (6-14 pt.) and length of line (16-27 picas, respectively). The smallest text (6 pt. on 16 pica line) was read significantly more slowly than the standard (10 pt. on 19 pica); the next larger (8 pt. on 17 pica) was approximately equivalent to the standard; the two largest (12 pt. on 23 pica, and 14 pt. on 27 pica) were read slightly more slowly (difference not statistically reliable) than the standard. Neither size of type nor length of line can be considered as an independent variable in determining optimal set-up. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)