Mac Tip: Using the Fonts window
The Fonts window can be easily accessed in most Mac OS X programs by pressing (Command + T) or by navigating the menu bar of your current application, generally in the "Format" sub-menu under "Show Fonts".
The Fonts window allows users to easily sort and categorize their Fonts. You are also able to change the font size in your document, add drop shadows (and adjust the settings), change the document page color, change the font color, and apply styles such as strike-through and underlining.
By dragging the tiny dot at the center of the top of the styles toolbar, you can reveal an information that tells you the font style and size of the currently selected text. This is a great way to be sure the fonts in your project match size and styles.
The Fonts window also allows you to search for a particular font which is especially helpful for someone like me that has over 400 fonts to sift through. By clicking the gear wheel icon at the bottom of the window, users can manage their fonts, look through typography options that may be available for some fonts, or search the special characters menu (also available in many Mac OS X applications by pressing Command + Option + T).
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I want to change only a font size and I need to open yet another window?
And this progress?
"this progress"?
My apps which I use to type text do not require me to use the Fonts dialogue, but in the ones that I have used that require this, it is not a problem. After all, there is a limit to the key combinations that can be used to modify text.
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by baldyauldeejit
October 13, 2009 12:45 AM PDT
- It's ironic that you chose Helvetica to demonstrate font functionality, considering the crippling effect Apple's policy of hogging this extremely popular font for themselves has had on the graphic design and print industry.
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by macdad614
October 13, 2009 7:18 AM PDT
- My preferred font is / was New York. It was LOST along the way, and I am unable to find it now.
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by MacFixIt Joe
October 13, 2009 8:58 AM PDT
- Apple is hogging Helvetica?
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by baldyauldeejit
October 13, 2009 10:09 AM PDT
- Helvetica Neue is very much a font of choice for Apple. Indeed, it is now a protected font and cannot be deleted. Apple's decision to use Helvetica Neue in this way has resulted in all but one (very expensive) versions of Helvetica Neue being rendered unusable. Perhaps, MacFixIt Joe, you don't fully comprehend the problems this has caused the graphic design and print industries. Take a look at Apple's forums or Google Snow Leopard and Helvetica Neue and you will soon see the problems Apple has caused.
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(6 Comments)I am assuming you've seen Gary Hustwit's documentary, Helvetica? I would say Helvetica is one of the most ubiquitous fonts in the world, to which no one can be accused of hogging it. In fact, Apple's font of choice is Myriad Set these days.
I fully understand why Apple would want to use such a classic font - it is beautiful and immensely readable. However, Apple should have had the foresight to rename their version as, say, Apple Helvetica Neue. Then we could all have enjoyed working with this beautiful, film star font.