Serif fonts have serifs, or details on the edges of some strokes. Serif fonts represent the most legible class of fonts and are usually used in books, newspapers and other large bodies of text. Serif fonts evoke a scholarly, professional and corporate feeling. Serif fonts are also called Roman fonts.
Sans serif fonts do not have serifs. Sans serif fonts often appear modern, clean, contemporary and sleek. Although they are easy to read in small amounts, large blocks of sans serif text tire the eyes. Use sans serif fonts for headings, captions, advertisements and in any small or medium-sized block of text.
Script fonts mimic calligraphy. Some script typefaces feature connected letters, while others have separate letters. Script fonts can be difficult to read and are usually used in invitations and announcements. Script fonts evoke a sense of formality, beauty and luxury. Never use all capital letters when using a script font.
Blackletter fonts refer to ornate, old-fashioned fonts designed from old hand-copied texts. Since blackletter fonts are extremely difficult to read in large amounts, the fonts are generally reserved for diplomas, the first letter of paragraphs and other ornamental uses. Blackletter fonts evoke a sense of ceremony and formality.
Handwritten fonts are designed to look like handwriting. Handwritten fonts are usually more casual than script fonts. They create a sense of warmth and informality, but can be difficult to read in large blocks of text. Use handwritten fonts for invitations, headings or other small blocks of text.
Ornamental fonts display pictures and symbols instead of alphanumeric characters. Some ornamental fonts have specific uses, such as musical notation or mathematics. Others provide a way to add pictures or embellishments without using graphics or clip art.