Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Training Synesthetic Letter-color Associations by Reading in Color
Published on: February 20, 2014
On the portability of computer-generated presentations: the effect of text-background color combinations on text
Massimo Greco1, Natale Stucchi, Daniele Zavagno
1University of Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy.
Objective:
The aim of our study was to investigate which text-background (TB) color combinations improve legibility and pleasantness of texts either presented on a computer screen or projected on a wider surface.
Background:
Our work stems from the observation that multimedia presentations, even those by professionals in visual disciplines, are often spoiled by illegibility, which affects readability and the pleasantness of attending to such presentations.
Methods:
We investigated this problem through three experiments. Experiment 1 assessed the best TB color combinations in slides presented on a laptop. Experiment 2 verified the correlation between legibility and pleasantness for TB presentations. Experiment 3 investigated the legibility of a slide projected on a wide screen in different room lighting conditions. In all experiments participants expressed a rating score for stimulus legibility or pleasantness.
Results:
Experiments 1 and 3 showed that it is best to have a dark text on a light background for both displayed and projected texts. Experiment 2 showed that pleasantness is tightly correlated with legibility, though legibility depends on contrast between text and background.
Conclusions:
Our findings are not in complete agreement with the literature concerning legibility of text displayed on a computer screen, and they are in contrast with the common belief that for projection purposes it is best to have a light text on a dark background.
Applications:
Some practical rules on combining TB colors are given to enhance the legibility of presentations, especially important for the legibility of projected texts.
Related Concept Videos
Guidelines and Strategies for Safe Computer Charting
Maintain Confidentiality and Security:
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Design Consideration
The factor of safety is another key aspect...
Position-effect Variegation

