You’ll have documents and presentations to prepare in 2012. Instead of using the default fonts (Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, Tahoma), try something different. Here are several classics recommended by acclaimed designer Massimo Vignelli:

• Garamond
• Bodoni
• Century Expanded
• Helvetica
• Optima
• Futura
• Univers
• Caslon
• Baskerville

If they’re not installed on your computer, you can purchase these at FontShop. Of course, there are many other choices besides these (and that’s kind of the point). Remember that each font has its own distinctive characteristics and “voice,” so use the right tool for the job.

If you’re thinking, “What’s the fuss over fonts?” then check out the BMW logos below. Only one uses the correct type and your impression of the company wouldn’t be the same if they used a different typeface. Bonus points if you can name the impostors.