Supportsoft Glossary

Tracking for Text Blocks

Tracking adjusts the overall spacing across a word, line, or paragraph. Unlike kerning, which targets pairs, tracking is applied uniformly to alter text density. 

Tracking is often confused with kerning, but it works on a broader scale. While kerning fixes the gap between two letters, tracking adjusts the spacing across an entire word or paragraph evenly. It’s a volume knob for text density.

We use this strategically. For body copy, we usually leave it alone so the letters flow naturally. But for headlines, especially those in ALL CAPS, we often increase the tracking slightly. Capital letters are blocky; they need a little extra room to breathe so they don't look like a solid wall. Conversely, for massive display text, we might tighten the tracking to create a punchy, graphic shape. It’s all about the visual tone—tight feels urgent; loose feels luxurious.