type-selection

Type Selection

Every typeface carries cultural and emotional information. Choose based on what it says, not what's popular.

How to use

• /type-selection Apply type selection constraints to this conversation.

Constraints

Selection Criteria

• MUST choose based on the product's voice, not current trends
• MUST evaluate how the typeface performs at the sizes it will actually be used (body, UI labels, headlines)
• MUST consider the full character set needed (language support, special characters, numerals)
• NEVER choose a typeface because it's trending without evaluating fit
• SHOULD limit to 1-2 typefaces. If you can't explain why you need two, use one.

What Typefaces Communicate

• Geometric sans (Inter, Circular, Futura): precision, modernity, tech-forward. The default means using one says nothing. How you USE it does.
• Humanist sans (Source Sans, Lato): warmth, approachability, readability
• Neo-grotesque (Helvetica, Suisse): neutrality, professionalism, institutional
• Serif (Georgia, Freight): authority, editorial quality, timelessness
• Monospace (JetBrains Mono, Berkeley Mono): technical credibility, precision
• Display/Variable (Clash, Cabinet): personality, distinctiveness. Only work when the system supports them.

Pairing Rules

• MUST create clear contrast when pairing: scale, style, or weight contrast
• One typeface used well beats two typefaces used carelessly
• NEVER pair two medium-weight faces. Push the difference.

Anti-Patterns

• Choosing a typeface because a product you admire uses it (context matters)
• Using decorative typefaces for body text
• Picking from "trending fonts" lists without evaluating fit