18. People read faster with a longer length, but they prefer a shorter line length

18. People read faster with a longer length, but they prefer a shorter line length

1. When it comes to reading speed, 100 characters per line is the optimal size. However, what we ACTUALLY prefer is 45-72 characters per line. This is surprising in ma ny facets because not only has it been proven that we read more quickly at the longer character length, but a shorter line length creates more interruptions to your reading rhythm.

   • This preference for the bite-sized nugget isn't limited to just character length, but also to layout. Similar to the character line, we actually read a single column of text quicker than multiple columns. However, similar again to the character line length, we actually prefer multiple columns.
     • So what do you do? Essentually, if reading speed isn't the primary focus of your content and you can afford to split it up, do so. Making your text as reader friendly and catering to preferences increases the likelihood of your content being read. Of course, this is all dependant on the content being something someone would want to read. Which is always the most important.

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