By Dana P Skopal, PhD

Many of us now write using computer programs that allow a writer to use bold text and different fonts. Computers have allowed writers to be imaginative with their document layout as well as their words. The key, however, is to effectively use bold text for headings and key terms in sentences.

One issue in the workplace is how much bold text to use in a document, even in an email. Though bold text may provide a visual component, if used properly it can also allow your reader to find important information easily. However, too much bold text can also confuse a reader, which became evident in our research.

Using bold text may be common practice for some, but using bold text forms a part of what is known as document design or multi-modal design features. Document design is important when writing one page or fifty pages. And just as out taste-buds vary, so do readers’ preferences for the layout of a document. This is where usability testing can help.

Last month we wrote about the organisation or logical structure of your information. Headings allow you to do this, and by placing the headings and key terms in bold means a reader’s eyes can easily navigate around your information. For effective written communication, a writer needs to consider both the logical ordering of information as well as what layout options, including the use of bold, can assist a reader to locate all the necessary information.

It is a balancing act, but a good communicator (often with the help of their editing team) can structure and visually present their message so a reader can use the written information. Don’t forget, in the workplace we write so that our reader can use the information.

Copyright © Opal Affinity Pty Ltd 2016