Choosing the Right Background for Your Text: Why Black and Light Blue are Better than White and Dark

When it comes to designing websites, one of the most important considerations is the choice of background color. But what makes a good background color? In this article, we'll explore why black text on a light blue and black background is a better choice for displaying paragraph text compared to white text on a dark background.

One of the main reasons why black text on a light blue and black background is a better choice is that it's easier to read. When you use white text on a dark background, the white reflects all wavelengths of light, which can make reading stressful on the eyes. This is because the human eye has three types of color-sensitive visual receptors, and when we look at white text, these receptors are stimulated in nearly equal amounts. This can lead to eye strain and fatigue.

In contrast, black text on a light blue and black background allows the reader's eyes to focus more easily on the words and letters. The black absorbs the light around each word and letter, making them easier to distinguish from one another. This makes it easier for the reader to perceive the shape of the words and letters, which is important for reading comprehension.

Another advantage of using black text on a light blue and black background is that it's more readable in different lighting conditions. When you use white text on a dark background, it can be difficult to read in bright sunlight or under fluorescent lighting. In contrast, black text on a light blue and black background remains easy to read even in these conditions.

So why do so many websites still use white text on a dark background? One reason is that it's often used for headings and titles, where the goal is to grab the reader's attention. However, this doesn't mean that it should be used for paragraph text as well. In fact, using white text on a dark background for paragraph text can make it difficult for readers to focus on the content.

But when do you use white text on a dark background? The answer is when you're scanning text rather than reading it. Scanning involves skimming the words for a broader comprehension of the subject, whereas reading involves focusing on the words for a thorough understanding of the subject. When you're scanning text, you don't need to focus as much on the individual words and letters, so white text on a dark background can be effective.

In conclusion, black text on a light blue and black background is a better choice for displaying paragraph text than white text on a dark background. This is because it's easier to read, more readable in different lighting conditions, and allows the reader's eyes to focus more easily on the words and letters. By choosing the right background color, you can make your website more accessible and user-friendly.

Light blue and black background