In this lesson, we'll cover how to use CH and VW units matched with tried-and-true CSS patterns to make a column of text that never exceeds legible line lengths while being fluid for responsive design.



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Create Appropriate and Responsive Line Length by using CSS CH and VW Length Units

Instructor: [0:00] We'll start with an element that contains multiple paragraphs of text. We want to limit that line length to make it as comfortable as possible for user to read.

[0:10] To do this, first, we'll set a width on our elements of 95vw, and set our left and right margins to auto. This will create a centered column of text with comfortable responsive margins.

[0:22] Next, we'll say max-width using the ch unit in CSS. The ch unit stands for a character unit and equals the width value of the zero character in the current font family. We use a max-width to allow the column to shrink and grow responsibly but never exceed that specific width value.

[0:43] Now usability guidelines, you'll want to set your column between 65 and 95 characters width. Your mileage may vary, so you want to play with these values to figure out the most comfortable line length for your font of choice.

[0:55] Maybe 65 characters is too narrow, but in Arial, which is the current font family, 95 ch is way too wide. In Arial, I find that 85 ch is a very comfortable usable line length.

Create Appropriate and Responsive Line Length by using CSS CH and VW Length Units

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