Print-Based Unit for Typography
The pc (pica) is a traditional typographical unit used primarily in print design. One pica is equivalent to 12 points or roughly 1/6th of an inch. While pc is rarely used in modern web design, it was once common for defining text and layout in print media. Although it is still supported for legacy purposes, it is less practical for responsive web design, where units like px and rem offer better flexibility across devices and screen sizes. However, some older projects may still use it for print-based layouts.
Pro and contra of using the pc unit
Pros:
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Print-Based Design: Useful in print media or legacy projects that require a typographic style consistent with traditional printing methods.
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Familiar to Designers: Often used in professional print design, so it may be familiar to graphic designers transitioning to web design.
Cons:
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Limited Web Use: Rarely used in modern web design, making it less practical for responsive or flexible layouts.
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Not Scalable: Like px, pc is not responsive and doesn’t adjust to screen size or user preferences, limiting its flexibility in today’s web environments.
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Outdated: In modern web design, pc is largely considered obsolete and less versatile than other units like px or rem.
Calculator formula
Example
