In text settings, use bold and italic text sparingly and for emphasis, not for lengthy amounts of body copy. The use of bold type in lengthy text settings should be avoided. Bold text takes up more room and often creates legibility problems. Limited use of bold text is an effective means of providing emphasis. The use of italic type in lengthy text settings should be avoided.
Italic text takes up less room than regular text, but often creates legibility problems.
Overuse of italics defeats its purpose. Avoid setting lengthy amounts of text over colored, tinted, or black backgrounds. Use care when setting lengthy amounts of text over colored or tinted backgrounds. Generally, anything that reduces contrast reduces legibility. Use care when setting lengthy amounts of text over colored or tinted backgrounds.