Final answer:
Legibility is influenced by Gestalt principles such as figure-ground relationship, good continuation, and closure, along with consistent visual style, adequate spacing, and accessibility considerations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The factors that contribute to legibility include several visual and perceptual elements. Gestalt theorists highlight principles such as the figure-ground relationship, which is crucial in how we segment our visual field into the focal point (figure) against the backdrop (ground). This segmentation affects how text and images are perceived and whether they stand out clearly against their background.
Another important Gestalt principle is the law of continuity, or good continuation. This suggests that elements arranged on a smooth flowing path are more likely perceived as a unified figure, which enhances legibility. Additionally, the principle of closure indicates that we tend to perceive objects as complete even if they are not, which can also affect the legibility of text and figures if they are partly obscured or incomplete.
Furthermore, factors like consistent visual style including font size, style, and color, as well as background contrast, play a significant role. These elements, alongside adequate spacing and accessibility considerations such as accommodating visually impaired individuals or those relying on interpreters, contribute to creating presentations, texts, and visuals that are legible for a wider audience. Therefore, understanding these Gestalt principles and applying them in design and presentation will significantly improve the clarity and legibility of the displayed information.