Text-related factors

Interlinear space

An interlinear space of at least 120% of font size is required to prevent the ascenders and descenders of a typeface from touching.

The longer the lines, the greater the interlinear space required. This helps the eye jump back more easily to the beginning of the line. Where lines are shorter, a slightly smaller Interlinear space is adequate.¹

Another key factor in determining interlinear space is x-height. The larger the lowercase letters in relation to the height of the capitals, the smaller the white space between the lines will appear. As a result, typefaces with a high x-height should also have an increased interlinear space.

The use of a larger interlinear space is also recommended for text displayed on screen.² Where the lines of text are short, however, such as on a smartphone screen, it may be reduced.