The print vs screen effect

Will your audience read your document on paper or on a screen?

This simple question has an outsized effect on how you'll write it.

Why?

People tend to give things more time and attention when they read on paper. They’re more likely to focus for longer. The layout won't change: the way you see it when you print it is the way they'll see it.

On screens, people are more distractable and more likely to skim. They’re also looking at writing that’s lit from behind, which means more eye strain. The writing can change shape (on a phone it will look very different than on a desktop).

The moral of the story?

Your writing needs to be tighter if people are reading it on a screen.

Rules of thumb