Biden's American Jobs Plan Is Only Half of the Equation

It's a great first step, but for this 'bottom-up' approach to work, entrepreneurs need mentorship, resrources, and on-the-ground help.

Why Dollar Shave Club Co-Founder Michael Dubin No Longer Believes in DTC

Dubin says the startup world has changed since he launched his men's grooming brand 10 years ago. Here's his advice for today's founders.

Feeling Stressed or Overwhelmed? Try the 'Help First Rule'

The 'help first' rule may seem counterintuitive--but it has the power to change everyone's perspective.

The Way You Give Feedback Is All Wrong. Here’s How to Do It Right

It's a lesson in emotional intelligence.

Advice from Female CEOs: How to Build Confidence In and Out of the Office

Insights on silencing self-doubt and embracing self-confidence to find success.

Why HashiCorp Favored a Remote-First Workforce Long Before the Pandemic

Armon Dadgar talks about his 'aha moment' and his company's path to a $5 billion valuation.

Research Shows That More Than 3 in 5 Workers Are Poised to Leave Their Companies

Black, Latinx, and women employees feel their skills are underutilized at work, prompting many to leave.

Brene Brown on What Leaders Get Wrong About Vulnerability

How can you be vulnerable with the people you lead? In one powerful quote, the EQ pioneer shares exactly what you shouldn't do.

You Can't Be Customer Centric from a Distance

My awful experience with a home warrantee company shows how cascaded service models are set up to disappoint.

Travel is So Diverse. Why is the Travel Industry So White?

I founded my company 8 years ago imagining a diverse future for travel. So far, that hasn't happened

Science Reveals a Brutal Truth About Pursuing (Much Less Achieving) Certain Goals That Most People Realize Too Late

Striving for money, fame, and appearance can actually make you less happy. Unless you add one ingredient to the mix.

The Emotional Intelligence of Google CEO Sundar Pichai (Exclusive Interview)

What's the biggest part of Sundar Pichai's job as Google's boss? You might be surprised to find out.

How To Win Board Support for Growth Investments

Convince your board that the future cash flows in today's dollars exceeds the upfront cost of your growth

4 Effective Ways to Keep Burnout at Bay

People are your greatest asset. Combat burnout through effective leadership.

He Changed His Feedback Style--and His Company's Revenue Grew By Almost 1,500 Percent

It took a crisis for Numerated founder and CEO Dan O'Malley to realize his polite demeanor was harming his company's growth.

Psychologists Just Figured Out How to Teach People to Become Master Daydreamers

A little training can make hanging out in your own head a boredom-busting joy, according to new research.

Volkswagen Just Did the 1 Thing No Brand Should Ever Do

Your credibility is your most valuable asset.

The Daily Mindset I Use to Get Ahead at Work

I run nine companies, host a podcast, and make time for hobbies. Here's how I get it all done.

Here's The Big Social Justice Issue Richard Branson Wants You to Care About

"Business people are human beings," he says.

Six Ways to Nibble Your Way to Higher Prices

Price can dramatically impact your profits. Here are 6 ways to nibble your way to higher prices.

In an Ever More Remote World, It Pays to Protect Your Data

We've all been too busy coping with being cooped up and dodging a deadly pandemic to concern ourselves with mundane things like password security. But the threat is bigger today.

How Intel's Andy Grove Taught Prezi's CEO to See Into the Future

Jim Szafranski shares how Grove's business school lessons led to 2020 being Prezi's strongest financial year.

Internal Documents Reveal the Marketing Strategy Peloton Used to Become a $1.8 Billion Company

And provide lessons and strategies any business can use to attract and retain customers.

How To Deal With Meetings That Never End On Time

... and four other tricky workplace dilemmas.

For Entrepreneurs, This Year Will Be Full of Unknowns--and Opportunities

We've faced some huge challenges in the past year. We'll face more going forward.

Spring Break Spending Harbingers a Mixed Bag for Summer Hotspots

Beach towns have been busy with customers. But community tensions and business capacity restrictions continue to present challenges.

Spain Plans to Pay Companies to Test Out a 4-Day Workweek

Should we try something similar here in the U.S.?

Amazon Started a Twitter War with Its Critics Because Jeff Bezos Was Mad. It’s a Fight It Can’t Win

Condescension and snark may make you feel better, but it rarely moves anyone towards your cause.

10 Keys to Achieving That Critical Cash-Flow Positive Milestone

A successful business launch is just the beginning. How to survive the race to cash-flow positive.

5 Rules Go-Getters Should Live By, Says This Super Successful Entrepreneur

Eryn Eddy, social entrepreneur behind the lifestyle clothing brand So Worth Loving, shares her advice for other go-getters.

Two Things Every Black Female Founder Needs to Know About Fundraising

Be open to unconventional funding sources, says Wanona Satcher, founder and CEO of Makhers Studio, a manufacturing and urban design firm.

How to Futureproof Your Business

Jessica O. Matthews, founder and CEO of sustainable infrastructure company Uncharted Power, talks about preparing for uncertainty.

New Report: Half of Employees Plan to Leave Their Job This Year. Here’s How Leaders Can Prevent Mass Turnover

Three areas employers should focus on to revamp retention strategies.

Why Anti-Asian Hate Should Matter To You

Leaders have a responsibility to speak out and support their AAPI colleagues and team members

This Is the Sign of a Great Thinker, According to Jeff Bezos and Adam Grant

Great thinkers don't just harbor doubt. They embrace uncertainty--and how little they really know.

Why Do (Some) Companies Lead Job Candidates On About Salary?

When a company addresses salary early on, why would they low-ball you later?

Elon Musk Sent (and Deleted) a Tweet at 1:20 in the Morning. It’s a Lesson in Emotional Intelligence

Never make a permanent decision based on a temporary emotion.

How to Design Your Home Office for Maximum Creativity

A little can go a long way.

Want to Keep Growing Your Business? Radical Innovation is the Safest Way to Go

Forget incremental change. If you want big returns--and less risk--build something entirely new.

The Unlikely Founding of One of the Most Popular Kickstarters of All Time​

The game company Exploding Kittens, which brought internet humor to the coffee table, was the whim of a pair of creative friends on vacation.

How a Controlled Crisis Can Energize Your Company

Sometimes, a little extra pressure can help your team make better decisions and scale new heights.

Mark Zuckerberg’s Response to a Question from Congress Is Exactly Why People Don’t Like Tech CEOs

The smart thing to do is to accept responsibility.

4 Ways Senator Amy Klobuchar's Antitrust Plan Would Change Startup Acquisitions

The Competition and Antitrust Law Enforcement Reform Act aims to rein in anti-competitive M&A activity and protect new businesses.

Bill Gates Just Shared the 3 Best Books He’s Read Lately

Some recommendations from the Microsoft founder in case you're looking to add to your to-read pile.

After 21 Years, Amazon Just Did Something Jeff Bezos Really Tried to Avoid

Consider the X of the Y, or in this case: "the Bernie Sanders of employers."

The Best Visual Content to Add to Your Website to Boost Engagement

Visual content is a powerful way to engage visitors and increase your chances of conversion. Knowing what type of visual content to use is key.

How to Improve Cross Cultural Communications When Hiring Outside of the U.S

If you're thinking of hiring talent outside of the U.S., these tips can help the onboarding process go smoothly.

American Airlines Just Made a Big Announcement People Have Been Waiting For. There’s Only 1 Problem

What does normal mean, anyway?

Am I Still Expected to Wear a Blazer to Work? Your 2021 Office Attire Questions Answered

If you spent the last year in sweatpants at home, it's time to consider your wardrobe choices for a return to work.

Can't Work Out As Much As You Want? New Research Reveals the Minimum Exercise You Can Do and Still Stay in Great Shape

For founders, staying fit has too many benefits to ignore. So don't. But you can reduce the time commitment.

Why Apple's Smart Home Strategy Should Be Less Like Apple and More Like Google

Apple isn't good at playing nice with others, but to succeed in the smart home it's going to have to.

Krispy Kreme Gives Free Doughnuts All Year to Anyone Who's Had a Vaccine. Here's Why That's Smart

Many large and small businesses are offering vaccine incentives. Maybe yours should too.

Want to Improve Emotional Intelligence? This Simple Trick Actually Works

It's called the Laundry Basket Rule, and it's a heck of a shortcut.

What Will Your Future Office Be Like? Take a Look at WeWork's Plans

Think LEGO-like modular designs, Zoom-friendly conference rooms, and lobbies with grab-and-go shops.

Senator Amy Klobuchar on the Reckoning for Big Tech

The Minnesota Democrat shared her take on what antitrust moves in Washington could mean for business owners.

Sign Up Now: Meet Dollar-Shave Club's Michael Dubin in an Exclusive Inc. Event, March 31, 3 p.m. ET

Learn how this brilliant marketing mind behind the company's hilarious viral videos took a subscription razor idea to a $1 billion business.

This 210,000-Employee Company Just Banned Zoom on Fridays. Here's Why You Should, Too

Citi CEO Jane Fraser says working too many hours is taking a toll. It doesn't help that the pandemic has blurred work-and-home boundaries.

The 'No One Would Work for Amazon if They Had to Pee in a Bottle' Defense is Not a Good One

The ecommerce giant argues that having employees is proof it is a good company for which to work.

I Just Had a Panic Attack. Now I'm Using These 4 Brain Hacks to Beat Rising Anxiety

Use these prescriptions for times of high stress at work--and at home.

Think You Need the Perfect Plan? Why Steve Jobs Said You Can Connect the Dots Only by Looking Backward

Perfect example: The success of Kyle Brandt, whose resume is definitely 'weirder than yours.'

Marshall Goldsmith: How to Be a Great Leader in Tough Times

Executive coach and best-selling author Marshall Goldsmith shared six questions all great leaders must ask at the 2020 Inc. 5000 Vision Conference.

3 Critical Lessons From the Pandemic to Build Into Your Crisis Plan

Business owners can learn about crisis planning in reflecting on the one-year wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Business owners have been pivoting, using technology and communicating differently this year -- and will likely be better prepared when other unforeseen events occur.

6 Keys To Keeping Your Company In The Lead

Create the future and react to fast-emerging opportunities and threats by listening closely to stakeholders

This Business Idea Could Help Save Cocktail Bars

Two mixologists discuss a new kind of business that could help bars and restaurants protect their profit margins.

Your Startup Just Hit 20 Employees. Great--Now You Need an Org Chart

Every successful startup faces that moment when the organization has to shift from scrappy to structured--and some job titles have to change.

3 Reasons You Should Buy a Business Now

With financial options available and an aging population looking to sell, there's never been a better time to buy a business.

Your Habits Might Be Accidentally Making You More Anxious, According to This Psychiatrist

Calm your nerves just by rejiggering your daily routine.

6 Qualities to Seek and Nurture in New Team Members

There are things you won't find in a resume that may be more valuable in finding the right match for your team.

Mark Zuckerberg Just Asked Congress to Eliminate all of Facebook’s Future Competition

In a hearing about misinformation, Facebook's CEO is trying a little misdirection.

4 Things to Consider Before Becoming a Venture Capitalist

VC might seem exciting, but it's a challenging job that's not for everyone.

How To Leverage Jungian Archetypes to Boost Your Brand

The real-world benefits of thinking mythologically when sharing your brand story.

Arlan Hamilton and Steve Case: 3 Ways for Investors to Support Diverse Startups

Access to startup capital is a national problem. At the Inc. Vision Summit, the two investors talked about potential solutions.

With 190,000 Applications On Hold and $79 Billion Remaining Funds, Senate Approves PPP Extension

Small businesses will get another two months of access to the program but the SBA says funds could be gone by mid-April.

Scott Belsky: What It Takes To Keep Your Business Ahead of the Pace of Technology

Adobe's chief product officer has his eye on what's next--and how your business can best adapt.

Senator Amy Klobuchar Has Big Plans for Small Businesses

At the 2021 Inc. Vision Summit, the Minnesota lawmaker shared the major changes she wants to make to U.S. antitrust laws.

If You Can Consistently Rate Yourself a '5' On These Six Questions, Science Says You're Much More Likely to Accomplish Huge Goals

Willpower, determination, and perseverance matters. But research shows embracing a strategic mindset could matter more.

How Kind Snacks Grew Faster Than Ever During a Recession

The 2008 crisis taught founder Daniel Lubetzky to stop worrying and grow assertively.

The Boring Benefits Your Employees Really Want

Free snacks at the office are out--pet insurance is in.

3 Questions You Must Say ‘Yes’ to if You Call Yourself a Leader

Use this quick exercise to measure your own leadership against the best leaders.

If You're Exhausted by Zoom, Try 'Reverse Meetings' Instead

A best-selling author has a surprisingly simple suggestion to fight Zoom fatigue.

Intel’s CEO Just Showed Why the Secret to Success Starts With Admitting When You’re Wrong

Pat Gelsinger has big plans for Intel, and they start with keeping the company's promises.

The to Build Resilient T

Teams are the key to helping with employee burnout. Here's how to build good ones

These Founders Are Planning a Smarter, Better Future for Cities

At the 2021 Inc. Vision Summit, founders Jessica O. Matthews and Wanona Satcher talked about their visions for urban development.

How to Win $25,000 for Your Small Business: The UPS Store Virtual Small Biz Challenge

A new contest is offering small businesses a chance to win money and a feature with Inc. magazine.

The 2 Things Every Post-Pandemic Office Needs, According to a WeWork Executive

At the Inc. Vision Summit, WeWork's Hamid Hashemi talked about how the workplace is being transformed.

How To Build And Lead An Indispensable Business

An excerpt from "Indispensable: Build and Lead a Company Customers Cant Live Without"

How to Fight Misogyny in the Workplace

During Women's History Month, these female leaders share tips for getting ahead and making a mark.

How Slack Solved One of the Hardest Things About Slack

The company's Chief Product Officer says this is an opportunity to "reinvent the way you work."

How to Hold You and Your Workplace Accountable to Get Things Done Effectively

Saying 'Yes' to These 7 Questions Means You're a Better Leader Than You Think. But 2 Questions Matter Most

Hint: Soft skills are important. But two leadership qualities matter even more.

A Mental Health Startup Just Hired Prince Harry. It's a Lesson for Every Company

Prince Harry has a new job as an executive of one of Silicon Valley's hottest startups. Here's why it's a perfect partnership.

Ikea Executives Face Possible Jail Time for Spying on Employees

French Ikea management allegedly spied on employees. Now they face fines and 10 year jail sentence, if convicted.

Facebook is a powerful tool, and when you use it properly, it can lead to significant business growth.

Facebook is a powerful tool, and when you use it properly, it can lead to significant business growth

Three Ways to (Legally) Spy on Your Rivals

To gather information about their competitors, these CEOs got creative.

Why Credit Karma's Founder Never Aimed for an IPO

Ken Lin wanted to help consumers manage their finances. In the process, he built acompany worth $8.1 billion.

Five Years Ago, She Sold Her Health Tech Startup. Last Year, She Sold It Again for $1.3 Billion

Lissy Hu just led CarePort Health through its second acquisition--while retaining her CEO title.

Follow the '70-20-10 Rule' to Produce Your Best Work

Aiming to do more work will generally get you further than aiming to do excellent work.

Why 'Good Enough' Is the Enemy of Great Leaders and How to Do Better

This simple way of reframing your work can make all the difference.

The iPhone Isn’t Even Apple’s Most Valuable Product. This Is

When you think about what people are buying, it's about the experience.

3 Ways Companies Have Shown Corporate Social Responsibility During the Pandemic

Here are some of the ways companies have provided relief in the past year-- and it's not too late to join them.

What Companies Can Learn From Stitch Fix and Peloton About Innovating in a Crowded Industry

start-ups, entrepreneurship, technology, videos

Business Leaders to Washington: Paid Family and Medical Leave Shouldn't Be Optional

And they say the crisis-era program should last long after the pandemic subsides.

What Entrepreneurs Can Do to Lead the Post-Covid Recovery

Advice from Moderna'sRobert Langer on the crucial elements for progress

5 Trends That Will Shape the Post-Pandemic DTC Landscape

Here's what you can expect from the direct-to-consumer industry in the years ahead.

5 Classic Books Warren Buffett Personally Recommends You Should Read

Five personal favorites from the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway.

Demi Lovato Filmmaker: To Make Great Branded Content, Follow the Super Bowl Rule

Producer and entrepreneur Michael D. Ratner explains how to build an engaged audience by making content people can't get enough of.

Want to Be More Successful? Neuroscience Reveals the 3 Most Important Goal Achievement Skills (and How to Develop Them)

Research shows completing a difficult task is all about cognitive control, an ability anyone can improve.

How To Fire A Well-Liked Employee Who's Trying Hard

... and four other tricky workplace dilemmas.

3 Tiny Steps You Can Take Today to Be Less Stressed and More Productive

To build healthier habits, start with small, science-backed actions, or 'microsteps.' This new book shows you how to get started.

What to Do Now. (Hint: "Nothing" is Not an Option)

The pandemic has accelerated trends such as touchless everything. You may not like these changes, but you do need to figure out how to make them work for your business.

Why You Should Embrace Transparency with Your Bonus Program

Should you share the size of potential bonuses and how to win them? If you want motivation to motivate your team, you should.

How to Spend You Stimulus Money to Maximize Your Happiness

Get the most joy out of your check with the help of a little psychology.

Steve Case Has Bet on Rust Belt Startups for Years. In the Pandemic, More VCs Have Joined Him

VCs used to view the heartland as an investment desert. But the pandemic has altered the whole idea of place.

'We're Terrified': How Asian American Entrepreneurs Are Responding to a Year of Racial Tension

The pandemic's spread has been accompanied by a nationwide uptick in anti-Asian sentiment. Small-business owners are on the front lines of it.

The SEC and New Breed of Startups Fuel the Equity Crowdfunding Flame

Gumroad's Sahil Lavingia is just one startup that's managed to raise $5 million from everyday investors--many of whom are also customers.

This Book Might Be More Useful than a Business Degree

Donald Miller's new book shows that learning how to grow a business doesn't have to be complicated.

The Best Way to Manage Your Inbox? Stop Sending Emails.

Email is one of the most misused and misunderstood tools in business--here's how to stop relying on it for everything.

Can You Bill An Employer For a Long Interview Process?

... and four other tricky workplace dilemmas.

This 2-Minute Video Is a Master Class in How to Deliver a Motivational Speech--and a Powerful Lesson in Emotional Intelligence

Because method without motivation only gets you so far. And motivation without method gets you nowhere.

Covid’s Surprising Side Effect: Unexpected Leadership Lessons

A brush with the brutal virus brought fear, gratitude, and clarity to these business owners.

4 Ways to Improve Team Morale When Your Staff Is Burnt Out

4 Ways to Improve Team Morale When Everyone's Beyond Burnt Out

How To Attract Angel Investors In 2021

As an active angel investor, here's what I recommend you do to raise funds this year.

This Is What Chronic Pandemic Stress Is Doing to Your Brain

Sorry, it's not pretty, but the end is in sight.

How to Scale Up Fast Without Sacrificing Your Culture, According to VC Theresia Gouw

Gouw has devoted her investing career to diversifying the startup world. So when a fintech founder on a similar mission needed a mentor, he asked her.

VC Theresia Gouw's 7 Key Ingredients of a Successful Company

Two decades after becoming one of the first women to break into venture capital, Gouw identifies the characteristics that all successful companies share.

8 Strategies to Make a Great First Impression on Potential Clients

First impressions count for a lot, especially with a prospective business partner or customer.

Apple and Facebook's Fight Isn’t Actually About Privacy or Tracking. This Is the Real Reason Facebook Is So Worried

The real reason Facebook is so worried? Transparency is a much bigger threat to its business.

The CEO of Delta Air Lines Just Shared the Perfect Leadership Message for 2021, and It's Only 7 Words

It's time to make up for lost time.

Science Says This Trick Can Instantly Make You More Persuasive and Influential

A simple twist to your approach can make all the difference. That, and asking a question.

People Who Adopt This Powerful 3-Word Habit Have Very High Emotional Intelligence

Yes, you should use them. But don't say them out loud. Things could get weird, fast.

Digital Vaccine Passports Could Help Life Get Back to Normal, But the Tech Comes With Drawbacks

There are ethical and privacy concerns about reopening society to those who can prove they've been vaccinated.

HBO MAX Spent $70 Million on Zach Snyder’s Remake of the $300 Million Justice League Flop. Why That’s Brilliant

Giving your super fans exactly what they want is one of the most powerful things any brand can do.

A Founder Got a $250,000 Investment From Mark Cuban. Here's the Exact Email He Used

Proof that cold emails are worth the effort.

Kids Who Do Chores Become More Successful Adults. (Here's How to Teach Them)

It's a two-step technique, with long-term results.

Three Other Ways the PPP Could Soon Change

Lawmakers have bigger aspirations for reforming the program. Their ideas include making one of Biden's recent changes retroactive.

Why You Should Apply for the 2021 Inc. 5000

This year's fastest-growing companies in America will be a particularly special group. You don't want to miss out.

How Rob Dyrdek's 'Fantasy Factory' Created a Blueprint for Product Integration and Content Marketing

Looking for an example of great product integration? This reality TV star built a whole show around it.

How to Launch Your Startup Like Elon Musk

You don't have to be a rocket scientist to start a company, but thinking like one helps

7 Myths That Make Businesses Totally Dependent on Their Owners

How to create and use business processes to create time, reduce errors, and scale your profits.

Zoom Meetings Are a Window into Employees' Lives--and a Major Responsibility

If you notice something awry at home you should say something--and act fast.

12 Root Causes of Work-From-Home Burnout and Zoom Fatigue

A cognitive neuroscientist explains the deeper reasons why virtual platforms deprive us from meeting many basic human needs that work culture once fulfilled.

How Glow Recipe Turns Fruit Into Wildly Popular Skin Care Products

The Korean skin care brand spent months finding the perfect recipe for rapid growth.

5 Steps to Make Your Team Bigger (Without Hiring Anyone)

You don't have to hire more bodies. But you do need to get beyond your direct reports.

If You Can Answer Yes to These 10 Questions, Your Relationship Is Stronger Than You Think

Your brain is wired to focus on the negative and that's probably hurting your relationship.

Maria Sharapova and Supergoop's Holly Thaggard: How Your Company's Mission Can Boost Its Bottom Line

At a Thursday SXSW panel, the entrepreneurs offered tips on networking, choosing investors, and setting goals.

5 Simple Tips for Organizing the Apps on Your iPhone

These will help you eliminate the digital clutter and be more productive.

4 Insights For Growing Faster From Harvard, MIT and Wharton Professors

Empower diverse teams to use technology to give customers better experiences

3 Ways You Can Do Digital Transformation the Right Way

The world is going online faster than ever, forcing some companies to play a dangerous game of digital catch-up. Here's how they can come out on top

Want to Raise Successful Kids? Warren Buffett Shared These 5 Words of Advice

Such good advice, he shared it twice.

The Best Startups Are Movements for Change

To do well, your business needs to be about more than just profit

Mark Cuban on the Big Fundraising Mistake Too Many Entrepreneurs Make

During a SXSW panel discussion, the 'Shark Tank' investor shared advice for first-time founders and talked about his latest venture, the chat app Fireside.

How Restaurants Are Prepping for a $28.6 Billion Grant Program

They're making their calculations; they're figuring what they'll pay off first. Some are even going to pay themselves.

Warren Buffett's 'Dream' Investment Reveals the Money and Investing Habit That Built a $100 Billion Fortune

The story of Warren Buffett's favorite investment, See's Candies. And a little 'Rich Dad, Poor Dad' thrown in for good measure.

4 Mental Health Hacks Inspired by Warren Buffett That Will Improve Your Life

Pertinent tips for uncertain times of high stress.

Sallie Krawcheck to Professional Women: Play the Game of Business as a Team Sport

Women need to work together to lift each other up, argues the investing icon turned entrepreneur.

3 Tips for Selling Your Company From a Founder Who Sold His Twice

Selling a business doesn't always go as planned. Just ask serial entrepreneur Tony Conrad.

If You're Smart Enough to Do These 4 Things, Your Leadership Skills Are Above Average

A team with high trust will produce results faster and at a lower cost. How do you measure up?

Vita Coco Won the Coconut Water Wars, But an Old Rival Is Planning a New Battle

Zico founder Mark Rampolla recently bought back his coconut water brand. Cutting into the market share of Vita Coco, the category leader, could be the greatest challenge of his career.

This Trick Can Take Your Inbox from Hundreds of E-Mails to Nearly Empty in Minutes

You're never going to read those idle messages and it's wasting your time. The fix is simple and fast.

Intel’s Ad Campaign Against Apple Is the Perfect Metaphor for Why It’s Getting Beat So Badly

Intel's problem has nothing to do with PCs.

How You Can Make a Comeback With Your Business in 2021

You worked hard to build your small business. Don't let Covid-19 have the last word.

The 6 Emerging Tech Trends That You Need to Know About Now From Futurist Amy Webb

Expect rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and augmented reality, as well as Big Tech diving further into healthcare and consumer finance. Don't get left behind.

The House Votes to Extend the PPP to May 31

The bipartisan program is expected to swiftly pass the Senate--which could help last-minute PPP filers or those who've been stymied by delays get the money they need to survive.

Paid Time Off for Covid-19 Vaccines? It's the Law in N.Y. and Elsewhere If You Mandate the Jab

And even where vaccines are not mandated, it's a good idea.

Hulu's WeWork Documentary: How Adam Neumann's Toxic Leadership Took Down a $47 Billion Unicorn

The SXSW documentary explores how WeWork co-founder Adam Neumann nearly destroyed one of the fastest-growing startups in history.

The Social Media Posts that Could Get Your Company Sued

"Mean Tweets" can open companies to unexpected litigation

How to Avoid the Phantom Deliverable Dilemma In Your Service Business

On the surface, this seems pretty simple. But you should look deeper.

The 5 First Things You Should Do Online When You Start Your Company

Build a well-rounded online presence for your business with these easy starting points.

How a Team of Academics is Using AI to Make Data More Accessible

Databricks' unified platform serves over 5,000 companies, including Shell, Comcast, and T-Mobile.

The Three Keys to Becoming a Leader Who Makes History

After decades studying the world's most effective leaders, Fawn Weaver relies on these truths while running the fastest-growing independent whiskey brand in U.S. history.

11 Lessons for Entrepreneurs From Jeff Bezos's Tremendous Success

As the Amazon founder exits the CEO role, he leaves his successor a set of rules that might be helpful to any entrepreneur bent on conquering the known universe.

The Brutal Truth About Productivity Successful People Accept (That You’re Still Fighting)

No calendar hack or productivity app will help you if you don't accept this hard truth first.

How 5 Small Businesses Reinvented Themselves During Covid

Virtual tours, gift boxes and a renewed focus: The ways small businesses got through a very tough year

Google Chrome's Incognito Mode Isn't What You Think

Just because your browser isn't saving your activity, the sites you visit and your employer might be.

Stacey Abrams Just Explained How You Can Be Incredibly Persuasive by Following This Simple Rule

In a SXSW keynote, the Georgia politician laid out the storytelling strategy that helped flip her state.

Senate Confirms New SBA Boss Isabel Guzman

Her top job will be overseeing the launch of two vital grant programs for shuttered venues and restaurants.

How Crisis Spurred Solutions for Destination Marketers, Influencers in 2020

2020 was a year of unprecedented change. For marketers and influencers in the tourism industry, some things may never be the same.

Should You Start a Business Now?

It's tempting, particularly for cashiered corporate warriors. But temptation isn't enough. You need a compelling reason--and a compelling product. Here are six things to consider before you take the plunge.

How a Rapper and a Law Student Built a Thriving Latin Music Label

Glad Empire's founders hit platinum by organizing music rights for artists ignored by major labels.

Does Your Business Need a Bit of Fresh Air?

Here are 3 Spring Cleaning Tips.

The Road Ahead After Covid Will Be Hard--Harder Still If You Fail This Lesson

If you are trying to fill the leader-as-hero role, stop. It's time to trade it for some humble pie.

Want to Raise Emotionally Healthy Kids? A Classic Study Shows Children Need More 'Grandparent Time'

According to a BYU study, grandparents can help kids be kinder, more involved, and sometimes even a little smarter.

How 2 College Students Broke Into the Beverage Business by Reinventing Bottled Water

Two college students spotted a market for sustainably produced bottled H2O--and made Open Water a must-have for green-friendly hotels, gyms, and museums.

How a Health-and-Safety ‘War Room’ Helped This Firm Double in Size During the Pandemic

The Chasen Companies' tailored approach to construction allowed it to double in size during the pandemic.

How a Rapper and a Law Student Built a Thriving Latin Music Label

Get Low Records' founders hit platinum by organizing music rights for artists ignored by major labels.

When Elon Musk Needs to Hire 100 New Employees By Next Week, This Is the Company He Calls

Human Bees solves big companies' staffing problems.

No One Wants Notepads: How New York’s No. 1 Company Stepped Up Employee Swag

Hate company gifts? This gifting platform delivers everything from coffeemakers to shaving kits.

The 3 Primary Motivators of You and Your Team

What drives you and your team: achievement, affiliation, or power? It is a powerful management idea that you can use to get the best our of your team and yoursel

As CEO of a Cruise Company, Here Are the 3 Strategies I Used to Weather the Pandemic

Navigating the ongoing shutdown has required a new kind of leadership.

This Real Estate Powerhouse Uses A.I. to Help First-Time Homebuyers

His app was good, but his mission is even better.

A Neuroscientist Explains How to Quiet Your Mind and Find Some Peace

Stuck in a loop of negative thinking? The solution is simpler than you probably think.

The 5 Simple Reasons Stripe Became the Most Valuable Startup Ever

With its most recent round of funding, the payment processor is now worth more than any other U.S. startup.

If You Want to Succeed, Be Willing to Accept Help From Others

Success is a moving target. To create business success, you must be willing to both give and receive. Here are three reasons why giving as an entrepreneur is helpful.

Backstage Capital Founder Arlan Hamilton Eyes Another Milestone: First to Crowdfund $5 Million

Management fees are not enough to sustain a small fund in its early days. Hamilton's Backstage sees another way.

Why the New Child Tax Credit is Great for Employers, Too

Business owners just received a lifeline when it comes to hiring and retaining their parent employees.

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Hand Lettering: Understanding Types of Type

What You'll Be Creating

At this point, after practicing the concepts in Letterforms at Their Core, you're ready to start moving on to bigger and better things!

This tutorial will help you understand the various kinds of typography that exist all around us, such as the typography you see in books, billboards, store signage, and everything else in between. You'll gain a great amount of knowledge to help you decipher typography characteristics and what their usage is in this day and age.

But perhaps you're looking for different types of letters for your creative digital projects. In this case, we've got you covered. Envato Elements has the best sans-serif fonts, serif fonts, slab-serifs, script fonts, decorative fonts, blackletter fonts, and monospace fonts.

Get Addington CF - Serif Font Family from Envato Elements

Scroll down after this tutorial—we've got a hand-picked selection of premium hand lettering fonts from Envato Elements.

What You Will Learn in This Hand Lettering Tutorial

• Letterform anatomy
• What types of letters are there
• How to do hand lettering
• Most popular letterforms

Letterform Anatomy Resources 

Since this is a beginner class focused on hand lettering and typography, I will be using some terms you may not know. Here is a list of terms you may want to read up on just in case you're not sure what they are:

• Typography Glossary
• Letterform anatomy: baseline, cap height, x-height
• Kerning
• Tracking

One last thing to note about this tutorial before we get too much further: this tutorial is about drawing letterforms, and it includes a lot of info about "why" we do certain things when it comes to typography. This tutorial is more of a guide to provide you with the basics and the understanding, while still allowing you to grow and practice on your own. If I provided you with the exact dimensions of little details and provided every little bit of information, I feel you wouldn't learn and grow as much on your own. Lettering is all about practice and persistence.

With that said... Ready? Let's get started!

1. Preparing the Tools You Will Need

Luckily, not many tools are needed this time around, since we're basically just going to be drawing. Here is a very small list to help you begin:

• Pencil (whatever your favorite pencil may be—no specific brand is needed)
• 8.5" x 11" paper (no specific brand is needed—standard copy/printer paper works great)
• Eraser
• Sharpie or any thick black marker/pen
• Ruler
• Printer (not required, but is certainly useful)
• Download PDF

Step 1

Let's go ahead and print this PDF out (or preview on whatever viewing device you please) for our reference throughout this entire tutorial. We're going to view these faces as we grasp and understand each style of typography.

Why are we using HEAO? Well, those four letters are the perfect combination of vertical, horizontal, diagonal, and curved strokes. Those four basic strokes make up every single letterform imaginable. So focusing on those basics will give you a great start to help you draw the remaining 22 letters in the alphabet.

Here is the list of typefaces we will be studying. These are some standard faces that nearly every computer already has preloaded onto it (except Old London—you might have to download that elsewhere if you'd like it for future reference, but don't worry, it's free!) 

1. Helvetica (sans-serif font)
2. Times New Roman (serif font)
3. Rockwell (slab-serif font)
4. Snell Roundhand (script font)
5. Rosewood (decorative font)
6. Old London (blackletter font)
7. Courier (monospace font)

Step 2

We're going to set up a "guide" or template to use throughout this tutorial. This page will contain the cap-height and baseline your letters will rest on throughout this tutorial.

All you need is a blank piece of 8.5" by 11" paper. Begin by measuring out 3" from the bottom right-hand corner and making a mark. Do the same on the opposite side of the paper and connect the dots!

Step 3

Now that we just created the baseline, let's form our cap-height. From the baseline you just created, measure out 2" and make another mark in the bottom right-hand corner. Then, do the same on the bottom left-hand side. Connect those dots, and you've got yourself a finished guide page that we'll be using in the rest of this tutorial.

2. Drawing Sans-Serif Letterforms

Step 1

Gather all your materials to draw letterforms. That will include paper, pencil, eraser, and pencil sharpener (if needed). Let's begin by drawing and understanding the structure of sans-serif letterforms. 

With your "reference sheet" in front of you, study the weight, contrast, negative space, and every little detail about the letterforms. Study exactly how that letterform is composed.

Have your guide page in front of you with a blank piece of paper on top. We're going to use the guide page to allow our letterforms to fit within the 2" space we created with the cap-height and baseline.

Step 2

It may sound silly, but what makes an H look great? What makes the H look proper? Well, the answer is, consistent vertical strokes (the same weight) as well as a slightly thinner horizontal stroke to connect the vertical strokes. 

If you've been studying typography for a while, you'll notice the little details such as a 0.5-millimeter difference in weight on the horizontal crossbar. Why is the crossbar nearly a hairline smaller than the vertical strokes? Because the H needs to feel balanced and not overweighted where the strokes meet. With the tiny hairline difference, the H becomes more pleasant to the eye and not an eyesore when being read at small sizes. Those little details are necessary not only for type design but for lettering as well.

Keeping all that in mind, draw two vertical strokes with the same width and a crossbar with a hairline difference. The width of the H is up to you if you'd like to explore—but for this tutorial, we'll make it similar to our reference sheet.

Step 3

Next, let's tackle the letter E. Just as you did with the H, study its characteristics. Pay attention to the little details! If you look closely enough, you can notice the middle crossbar is shorter than the top and bottom crossbars. Why is that? The middle crossbar is just a tad shorter to help balance and evenly distribute weight across the entire letterform. It essentially helps open up the negative space within the E so it doesn't feel so heavy. Additionally, just like the H, the crossbars are a hairline thinner to aid the overall weight as well. Keep these things in mind when drawing connecting horizontal strokes and vertical strokes!

So draw one vertical stroke and three horizontal strokes to form the E. Make sure that middle crossbar is a bit shorter in width too!

Step 4

Now that our E is complete, let's move on to the A. Again, study how the A is composed. What makes it feel balanced? What happens if the crossbar is raised? You can test that out in your own drawing, but I think you'll find it looks rather odd, doesn't it? The crossbar is optically centered so the negative space within the counterform is equal to the negative space just below the crossbar. 

How do you know what angle to draw the vertical strokes? Well, you don't really know, because that's all dependent on the width of the letterform. If you want a really thin A, your angles will be incredibly steep. On the other hand, if you want a wide A, your angles will be more moderate.

Draw two angled strokes that meet in the middle. Then, add that crossbar, and it's good to go! Use the below gif to understand how I've formed the A with each stroke.

Step 5

Alright, we've made it pretty far! Let's finish off this sans-serif combination with the letter O. Let's study the reference sheet once more and understand just how that O was created and balanced. You can see that the north and south (vertical) points of the O are ever so slightly thinner in weight than the east and west (horizontal) points. Why does the counterform of the O taper like that? That tapering is yet another balancing act to make the weight easier on the eyes when read within a word or sentence.

If you read through the Letterforms at Their Core tutorial, you know the curves of the O extend above and below the baseline and cap-height.

Step 6

That's a lot of information in a short amount of time. There's tons of practice involved with making your strokes the proper angle and your curves nice and smooth—don't fret, it all comes in time! Just keep practicing! Repeat Steps 1 to 5 if you think you need the practice. If you're not satisfied with the way your letterforms are looking, remove your paper from the guide page and begin again!

3. Drawing Serif Letterforms

Before we begin, I want you to study these letterforms for a bit longer. What makes a serif letterform different from a sans-serif? Well, a serif typeface has serifs, whereas a sans-serif has no serif. Hence, the word "sans", which means without in French.

Additionally, there is more contrast in these letterforms. Some strokes are thin, while others are thicker. Why is that? If you think back to how these letterforms were first created, the thicks and thins are implied by the direction and angle of the pen or chisel. For example, if you're pulling your pen downward towards yourself, generally the pen will release more ink since pressure is being applied. On the other hand, if you're dragging the pen left to right or downward to upward, the stroke will be thinner, since the pressure isn't being applied.

A serif is the finishing stroke of the letterform which generally projects outward of the stroke. So, to simplify things, just think of drawing sans-serif letterforms, but then adding serifs afterwards. You'll see what I mean by the process below.

Step 1

Begin by studying the weights of the strokes in the H. Let's draw a sans-serif H to start off. 

Using that previous sans-serif H, let's now add the serifs. They don't extend too far from the stroke, so keep them about a quarter inch or less. It's all up to you! The key is to make sure your serifs are consistent and similar across the entire letterform, as in the image below. And the last thing to notice is that the crossbar is much thinner in weight, so be sure to translate that in your drawing as well.

Step 2

Let's move on to the E. Again, begin by drawing a sans-serif E (except keeping in mind the weights of the crossbars are much lighter), then adding the serifs afterward. The only difference with the E is that the serifs don't extend left and right like the serifs on the H. Instead, the serifs extend downward and upward on the various crossbars.

Step 3

Unlike the sans-serif A, this serif A has more of a pointed apex rather than flat (it is technically flat towards the top, but so tiny it's almost not noticeable! That flat apex makes all the difference, though). Again, start by drawing a sans-serif A, but make sure the left stroke is thin and the right stroke is thick. Once you have that done, add the serifs towards the bottom of the angled strokes, and it's complete.

Step 4

Getting the curves of the O is probably still pretty difficult. It all just takes repetition and practice, so keep at it! Pay attention to the weight, width, and contrast of this letterform. Unlike the sans-serif O, this letterform has much less weight on the north and south curves (that weight is created by the pressure of the pen when drawing an O).

And with that, you've got a finished serifed HEAO!

4. Drawing Slab-Serif Letterforms

Slab-serif letterforms are pretty explanatory. Essentially, just think of a sans-serif typeface with "slabs" on either end of the strokes rather than the thin tapering serifs like the previous serif letterforms we just did.

The only thing to remember with slab serif faces is that the slabs are generally the same weight as the crossbars (which means they're about a hairline thinner than the vertical strokes).

Step 1

Beginning with the H, let's start by drawing another sans-serif H. Next, just add those slabs to the tops and bottoms of the vertical strokes. Pay attention to the weight—it may just be a hairline, but it makes all the difference!

Step 2

Move on to the E whenever you're ready. Just as you did before, start with the sans-serif and add some slab-serifs! Just notice there is no slab on the middle crossbar of the E. There's no slab because if one did exist, it would consume all the negative space within the letterform and feel way too heavy.

Step 3

Alright, you've got this A. No explanation needed really! It's nearly identical to the sans-serif A. The only difference? That's right, slab-serifs. Add 'em on, and you're good to go!

Step 4

Now, anything with a curve generally doesn't have a slab attached to it, unless it's a curve such as a P, R, B, etc., which connect to a vertical stroke. Anyway, for this O, decide on a good width (obviously try to match our reference sheet—unless you're trying something unique and different!) and begin drawing (almost) a perfect circle. Simple as that!

Here's our completed Slab-Serif HEAO!

5. Drawing Script Letterforms

Let me throw out a little disclaimer before we get into this section. Script lettering is another subject in itself. I'll be writing a separate class for script letterforms for you to truly grasp the dos and don'ts of script. We're going to focus on a few minor details of script, based on the typeface Snell Roundhand, to give a little intro to script lettering. 

Things to note while practicing: script lettering was generally done with some sort of calligraphy tool like a fountain dip pen, oblique pen, etc. That's something to remember when trying to understand the thicks and thins and other characteristics. Additionally, with a script style of lettering, it's usually only the first letter within the word that's capitalized, not the entire word. I've only kept the HEAO capitalized to remain consistent with the other styles of typography we're learning. 

Keep that all in mind when practicing the below steps. Let's get started!

Step 1

Beginning with the H, and all the other letterforms for that matter, we're going to keep a constant angle of about 45 degrees. Let's start by drawing the nice fluid 45-degree left-hand stroke of the H and do the same with the right-hand stroke. As I said above, the thicks and thins are determined by the pen. When a pen is pulled down, more ink is released, causing the thicker strokes. Knowing that, for this H, pay attention to the thin weights near the top and bottom of the stroke, and notice how it begins to get heavier in the middle.

Add that crossbar and the teardrop terminals, and this H is complete! (Note: the additional "swash" stroke on the left-hand stroke of the H is optional. More details and info about the "extras" will be covered in another tutorial.)

Step 2

If you take a look at this script E, you'll notice it's rather odd looking. Definitely a unique letterform. And the best part about it is that it's formed with a single stroke of the pen.

To form this E, begin a bit below the cap-height, curve upwards toward the top-right, and bring it around counterclockwise and downward toward about the center of your 2" space on your guide page. Once that's complete, curve outward and down towards the bottom left and circle around to the top right, while still keeping that curve below the crossbar-line. This gif will help you understand the process a bit more.

Step 3

If you compare the right-hand stroke of the H and the right-hand stroke of the A, they're exactly the same! (other than minor weight differences where the stroke begins).

With that said, begin with the right-hand side of the A (that's just my preference) and essentially draw what you've already done with your H. Next, finish it off by drawing the thin stroke at that same 45-degree angle. You have the option to add the teardrop terminal or leave it off entirely.

Add that crossbar, and it's good to go!

Step 4

The script O should feel pretty similar to drawing a serif O. The only difference here is the 45-degree angle and varying weights.

With that in mind, begin the O just a tad below the cap-height and maintain the thick strokes on the left and lower-left-hand side as well as the right and upper-right-hand side of the O.

The exit stroke where it extends outside of the O is another optional stroke. I'll teach you more about flourishing, swashes, etc., in a later tutorial.

Here's our completed script HEAO!

6. Drawing Decorative Letterforms

What makes a decorative letterform decorative? Essentially, it's just the extra bells and whistles that are added to the face to give it an extra appeal. For example, in the Rosewood typeface we're dealing with on the reference sheet, the drop shadow, diamond shape, and divided color make this "decorative". If all those extra things weren't included, this would just be a normal slab-serif typeface.

So, as far as teaching you this style goes, there's not much I can teach since it's totally up to you how you want to embellish your type. A great website to see tons of decorative styles would be Typefight.

Step 1

Let's begin by using our slab-serif letterforms once again. The only difference with these letterforms is the width of the overall letterforms and the brackets within the slab-serifs. So draw out each letterform, H, E, A, and O. You've done it multiple times now, so it should be easier this time around!

Step 2 

Now that you've got your basic letterforms drawn, it's time to embellish. To do so, we're going to use the same direction shade that Rosewood uses, but let's change it up a bit and make a small drop shade rather than a large drop shadow. So, essentially, draw an extra line around each letterform on the right and bottom sides.

Step 3

Instead of copying the exact style of Rosewood, let's fill in the letterforms with a light pencil shade to make them a light grey value.

To finish it off, let's give our type some "spurs". Essentially, let's add a small triangle on whichever side of the letterform you please. I drew mine on the left.

Step 4 

To add even more, let's add the circle with two pointed triangles on the north and south of the circle. Repeat that across all the remaining letterforms, and I think we can call it a day.

As I said before, this entire process is totally up to you! You have creative freedom to embellish your typography however you'd like.

7. Drawing Blackletter Letterforms

Blackletter forms are another beast to tackle in a separate class, but I'm still going to provide some basics to get you started in the right direction!

To understand how they're formed, you need a bit of history. Blackletter is also referred to as Gothic Script because it's a form of calligraphy. It was used very widely in Europe for nearly any kind of document/book since everything was written by hand until the invention of printing by Johannes Gutenberg.

There are a wide variety of styles of blackletter forms. The capitals you will be practicing are of a more "modern" approach to the blackletter characters formed in the early 12th to 17th centuries. 

Obviously, by the look of these characters, you can tell they're pretty complex, with lots of vertical, angled, and curved strokes. To understand how they're formed, you need to know what tools were used too. A simple broad-edged nib that produces a straight line of ink is the utensil of choice. If you'd like, you can purchase the Pilot Parallel Pen for practice. But, since this class is about drawing letterforms, let's begin drawing rather than writing.

Step 1

Beginning on the H, let's form the first left-hand vertical stroke. Draw that stroke, keeping in mind the thin weight towards the top and bottom and the thicker weight in the middle. It starts thin and gradually gets thicker because of the weight implied by the broad-edged nib and maintaining the 45-degree angle.

Next, let's form the bottom horizontal stroke. It should now look almost like an "L".

Continue further and add the second vertical stroke that eventually connects into the base of the horizontal stroke you just created.

Lastly, add that curve to finish off this H. Additional extra strokes that extend off the letterform are optional, but I included the process in the gif for your reference.

Step 2

Moving onward to the E. This should be relatively easy for you if you completed the Hand Lettering: Letterforms at Their Core tutorial.

Begin by forming a semicircle (the bowl of the E). Next, let's add the vertical stroke that's just a tad to the left of the center. Watch the weight as it connects into the bowl.

Next, add the "crossbar" or the horizontal stroke of the E towards the top. It'll connect to the vertical stroke you just created. Watch the weight again. Make sure it doesn't get too heavy at the top. 

Lastly, let's form the last horizontal stroke that sits just above the center of the E. Let's first draw that thin vertical stroke down the center of the E. Then, connect the second horizontal crossbar directly to that thin vertical stroke we created. The finished letterform will look something like this.

Step 3

Moving onward with the A, let's start with the right-hand vertical stroke. Pay attention to the weight once again, as it gets thinner to thicker from top to bottom.

Next, add the 45-degree angle stroke to complete the structure of the A. Then, add that crossbar.

Now here is where you have the choice to add all your embellishments. I say we add the curved stroke from the top of the A to the crossbar. 

Step 4

With the O, this should be relatively simple as well if you've mastered your curves from the previous class. The only difference is the flat start of the stroke on the left-hand side of the O.

So begin by drawing the first left-hand curve, and next, add the right-hand curve to complete the circle. Keep in mind the top-left needs to be flat instead of round like the rest of the letterform. 

Lastly, let's add the one left-hand vertical stroke on the inside of the O. Again, you have the choice to draw the extra thinner lines. It's up to you what you do with these letterforms!

To really understand the forms and structures these specific letterforms take, it's best to write them with a broad-edged nib and understand your thicks and thins that are created by the angle and direction of the pen. Gothic script (blackletter) is an art form in itself. I highly recommend practicing that before beginning to draw the forms because it'll help your eyes and hand compose the letterforms on paper without writing the forms.

Here's the completed blackletter HEAO!

8. Drawing Monospace Letterforms

To be honest, I've never drawn monospace lettering for a client. It's not as appealing as the rest of the styles you're now capable of, but it's still something to add to the knowledge base! You either have never seen this style of typography or barely at all. The reason is that monospaced fonts were used with the first computers and their terminals. Those computers had very limited graphical capabilities, so a fixed-width (monospace) typeface was needed.

Usually, every letterform within a typeface has different widths. For example, a "W" is much wider than a "J". But with monospace letterforms, those widths would be the same.

With that said, certainly pay attention to the overall widths of your monospaced letterforms. Make sure they're all equal! 

Step 1

With these letterforms, they're pretty similar to the slab-serif face we created earlier. Only difference? That's right, rounded slabs, as well as the consistent width of every letterform.

Draw those vertical strokes, add a crossbar, throw on the slab-serifs, and you're good to go!

Step 2

Same as the above, prepare this E by drawing a vertical stroke and attaching three crossbars just as we've done many times above. Lastly, add the rounded-slab-serifs, and it's complete.

Pay attention to consistent weight, as if this was the very first exercise you completed during this tutorial. 

Step 3

Again, same process as before. The only difference with this A is that a small exit stroke has been added to the top-left. Other than that, follow the same processes we've already practiced. It consists of two diagonal strokes, a horizontal stroke (for the crossbar) and the rounded slabs.

Step 4

Let's finish this O, and we'll be done! Extend the curves just slightly above and below the guidelines of your "guide page" you have underneath. Draw those curves, and make sure the width is the same as your previous letterforms.

Now, you've got yourself a completed monospaced HEAO!

5 Top Hand-Lettering Fonts From Envato Elements

You've learned everything about the different types of letters and how to do hand lettering in this tutorial. Next up, let's see some of the best hand-lettering fonts from Envato Elements.

If you're a digital creator with multiple projects, you'll love our subscription-based marketplace. For a low monthly fee, enjoy unlimited downloads of the best hand lettering fonts. You can also get unlimited premium fonts, graphic templates, actions and presets, and more.

Let's see some classic hand lettering fonts from Envato Elements:

1. Exensa Grotesk - Sans-Serif Font (OTF, TTF, WOFF)

Exensa Grotesk is a classic and clean sans-serif font inspired by the popular Helvetica sans-serif font. If you're looking for modern sans-serif fonts for your projects, check this one out.

Exensa Grotesk features five weights and includes all web font formats. This is one of the best sans-serif fonts for creative projects.

2. Addington CF - Serif Font Family (OTF, TTF)

We've all worked with Times New Roman and know this classic serif font. And if you're a fan of serif fonts, you'll surely love this one. 

Addington CF is one of the modern serif fonts we've got in Envato Elements. This beautiful serif font is excellent for all types of text. It includes seven weights, Roman and Italic sets, and more advanced features.

3. Synthesia Brush Script Font (OTF, TTF, WOFF)

Script fonts will always be popular, and this is one of the best script fonts we've got. Synthesia is a brush script font, which means it has a handwritten look. 

The brush script font features stylistic sets, punctuation glyphs, and supports international languages.

4. Hypebeast - Vintage Decorative Font (OTF, TTF, WOFF)

Who doesn't like decorative fonts with vintage looks? Hypebeast is one of the best decorative fonts of the Envato Elements fonts library.

This decorative font is really complete. Hypebeast comes with more than 500 glyphs, ligature and stylistic alternates, ornament vector bonus, and it's accessible in many types of software. 

5. Minerva - Blackletter Font (OTF, TTF)

If you like traditional blackletter fonts, Minerva is for you. This classic gothic blackletter font will look great on your creative digital projects. This gothic font includes uppercase letters, numerals, and punctuation symbols.

Explore More Hand Lettering and Calligraphy Resources 

I hope you've liked this letterform anatomy tutorial. Now you know what types of letters there are and how to recreate them. After the hand lettering fonts from Envato Elements, I'm sure you'd like to discover more resources:

• 
  Hand Lettering
  Hand Lettering: A Project From Start to Finish
  Scott Biersack
• 
  Hand Lettering
  Hand Lettering: How to Stylize Your Letters
  Scott Biersack
• 
  Hand Lettering
  Hand Lettering: Mastering Brush-Script
  Scott Biersack
• 
  Hand Lettering
  New Course: Hand Lettering for Beginners
  Andrew Blackman
• 
  Typography
  The Difference Between Typography & Hand Lettering: Typography in 60 Seconds
  Melody Nieves
• 
  Hand Lettering
  Hand Lettering: Scripts, Swirls, & Flourishes
  Scott Biersack
• 
  Fonts
  25+ Best Free Hand-Lettering Style Fonts (Designs for 2021)
  Melody Nieves
• 
  Fonts
  29 Best Handwritten Fonts
  Melody Nieves

Practice the Types of Hand Lettering Today!

Practice, practice, practice. Some of those first initial drawings might not look how you want them to, and that's OK! I started in the same place. Just like anything in life, it all takes practice and patience. Give it time and effort, and you'll be great.

If you need any help or have questions regarding the material above, feel free to comment. Good luck!

If you didn't find the hand-lettering font you were looking for, go to Envato Elements and browse through its library today!