kerningtracking

Kerning and tracking are typographic terms that refer to the spacing between characters in a line of text. Although related, they describe different adjustments used to improve the visual appeal and readability of text.

Kerning specifically pertains to the adjustment of space between individual character pairs. It aims to correct uneven spacing that can occur naturally due to the shapes of certain letters, such as "A" and "V" or "T" and "o." Proper kerning ensures that the spacing appears visually balanced, preventing awkward gaps or overlaps that can distract readers. Kerning is often adjusted manually in professional typesetting or automatically by digital typesetting software based on pre-set metrics.

Tracking, on the other hand, refers to the uniform adjustment of spacing across a range of characters or an entire block of text. It influences the overall density of text, making it either more condensed or expanded. Adjusting tracking can enhance readability, fit more text into a limited space, or create a specific aesthetic effect. Unlike kerning, which targets specific pairs, tracking affects larger portions of text uniformly.

Both kerning and tracking are essential tools in typography, used by designers to improve the visual quality of text. Proper use of these techniques can enhance the legibility, professionalism, and aesthetic appeal of various media, from print to digital displays. Modern font editors and design software typically include controls for adjusting both kerning and tracking, allowing precise fine-tuning of text layouts.