Tracking

Tracking is the uniform adjustment of letter spacing across an entire word, line, or block of text. Unlike kerning, which addresses the space between specific letter pairs, tracking applies a consistent adjustment to all characters equally. Increasing tracking — adding space between all letters — creates a lighter, more open feel that is often used for wordmarks set in all capitals, where default tracking can feel too tight. Reducing tracking brings letters closer together, creating a denser, more compact effect. In logo and wordmark design, tracking decisions significantly affect the personality and character of the type. Widely tracked capitals feel elegant and refined; tightly tracked lowercase has a modern, compact energy. Tracking must be considered alongside the context in which the wordmark will appear — what reads well at large sizes may need adjustment at smaller scales.