Clearly formatted text using the CH unit

Use the character unit to limit the number of characters per line in a text element.
By utilizing the character unit (CH), we can define the maximum width for various text components (such as headings or paragraphs) by limiting the number of characters (including spaces) per line. This approach confines the text within a smaller space, thereby reducing the strain on the eyes caused by constantly shifting focus back and forth across the screen for each line of text.

Essentially, the CH unit corresponds to the number of zeros in a specific font (for instance, 10ch in the Times New Roman typeface will restrict the width of a text element to match that of 10 zeros in the Times New Roman font).

The difference in width of 10ch in Times New Roman font versus Verdana font is visualized by showing 10 zeros in a line in each font. Verdana font’s zeros are wider so it has a greater width.

Follow these steps to employ the CH unit:

  1. Choose a text component (e.g., a heading, a paragraph, etc.)
  2. Access the Style panel > Size
  3. Input the CH unit in the Max W field (e.g., 60ch)
  4. Hit Enter

Delve deeper into the CH unit by exploring our lesson on Typography.

Cheers! You stand as the conqueror of adjusting CH!

Ewan Mak
Latest posts by Ewan Mak (see all)