What is a key characteristic of serif fonts?

• A. Serif fonts have small lines at the ends of letters.
• B. Sans-serif fonts have small lines at the ends of letters.
• C. Serif fonts are always easier to read on screens.
• D. Sans-serif fonts create a traditional look.

Answer: (A)

Serif fonts are defined by the small lines at the ends of their letters, called serifs. That distinctive feature is what sets them apart from sans-serif fonts, which lack those finishing strokes. You’ll see serif faces like Times New Roman or Garamond that use these tiny lines, giving text a more traditional, formal feel and often helping the eye follow lines in printed text.

The statement about serifs is the best fit because it directly identifies the defining characteristic. It’s not always the case that serif text is easier to read on screens; in fact, many people find sans-serif fonts clearer on digital displays, so the idea that serifs are always easier to read on screens isn’t correct. Likewise, sans-serif is generally associated with a modern look, not a traditional one.