There are some things about web formatting that most internet users know. Using all capitals is to be avoided, as it’s considered shouting. Over-use of exclamation marks, bold and italics is similarly poor form. Posting large chunks of unrelieved text scares users off, and using too many vibrant colours risks giving your users a headache.

The format of your pages has a big effect on your SEO as well as your users. Careful use of format can indicate important information to search engine spiders. Bad font size decisions can trigger spam filters. Positioning of text and headlines gives more weight to your keywords. These, as well as general usability, are all things to consider when formatting your pages.

Fonts

Using the wrong font can reduce a user’s speed of reading, leading to a lot of frustration. If a user has to slow down in order to piece words together, it’s likely they’ll give up. The font you choose also has an effect on the amount of information a user is likely to retain. Fancy fonts may be aesthetically pleasing, but very few will show your content in its best light. Sticking to simple fonts means that readers can easily absorb the information you want to convey.

It is thought that sans serif fonts are best for pitching information directly at the user. For this reason, content such as lists and bullet points is best presented in something like Arial. Serif fonts such as Times New Roman are good for blocks of text, as the serif touches lead the reader’s eye along the line in a smooth flow.

Spacing

You may have read various search engine optimisation articles about allowing enough white space around text on a web page. This is because a little white space allows individual words to jump out. Crowding the page with graphics and chunks of text has the effect of a traffic jam, requiring time for the user to examine and understand. Sufficient white space will allow keywords at the edges of paragraphs to stand out.

Allowing room around your words applies to more than just the edges of your pages. The way you space your paragraphs and lines of text will also have an effect on how your content is read. It is important to know where to position your main keywords for best user and SEO effect. This is something an SEO firm can help with, and you can talk to our experts at SEO Consult about optimal keyword positioning.

Sizes

Deciding on a size for your font isn’t an easy proposition. Most businesses will have a lot they want to convey on their main pages, particularly their home page. The font size needs to be a compromise between readability and maximum content. Most websites use a 10 or 12 point font for content.

Formatting issues all affect each other. The amount of white space around your font affects possible sizes. Certain font styles require more breathing room. Format should be examined as a whole, with the relevant SEO considerations taken into account. It’s helpful to talk to your consultant when deciding on format.

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