Books Quote by Philip Hughes
““ Designing for readability Some exhibiting institutions recommend in their guidelines that all texts should be readable by an average twelve-year-old. Studies show that even competent readers are less able to see and understand text in the often confusing environment of an exhibition, and reading ages are effectively lower for exhibition texts than for reading in less demanding surroundings, such as the classroom or home.””
About This Quote
Source Article: Designing for Readability, exhibition guidelines, date unknown
Exhibition texts need simpler language because the environment hampers comprehension, making them effectively harder to read than texts in calm settings.
In simple terms: Exhibition texts should be easier to read than normal texts.
Key Takeaway
Write clearly for a younger audience in noisy spaces.
Themes
communication
design
accessibility
education
Mood
practical
considerate
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- museum signage
- exhibition catalogs
- online exhibit descriptions
Key Concepts
readability
cognitive load
audience analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you test readability in a busy exhibit?
- What design changes improve comprehension?
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