ELLAChoosing a large print size
There is no single right size. The right one is the smallest size the reader can read comfortably for as long as they need to. That depends on their eyes, the font, the paper and the lighting.
How to find the right size
- Print or show the same page at three or four sizes, such as 16, 18, 22 and 28 point.
- Ask the reader to read a paragraph from each, as they would at their desk or in bed.
- Ask which they can read fastest and with the least strain.
- Choose that size. If two sizes feel the same, choose the larger.
- Ask again in a few months. Eyes and tasks change.
What the numbers mean
Point size is the height of the type's em square, not of the letters you see. Fonts at the same point size can look different. Atkinson Hyperlegible and Verdana look large at 18 point. Some fonts look small at the same size. If a font feels small, try another font before you make the size bigger.
Many guides treat 16 point and above as large print. ELLA offers sizes from 12 to 36 point: 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 28, 32 and 36.
Other things that matter as much as size
- Line spacing. Try 1.5 lines before you go to double.
- Contrast. Black on white or cream is a safe start. Some readers prefer a dark background with light text.
- Font. Plain letter shapes without decoration. Avoid italic and all capitals for long passages.
- Paper. Matt paper reflects less light. Use thick enough paper that print does not show through.
Tell ELLA the size
Write it in your request: "large print at 24 point". Or save it in your accessibility profile so you do not have to repeat it.
When a bigger size is not the answer
If a reader needs 36 point or more, ask whether a different format would serve them better, such as HTML that they can zoom, or braille. A QTVI can advise.
Still stuck?
Browse the help centre, or contact support and say what you were trying to do.