Which of the following best describes a serif font?

A serif font is best described as a type of typeface that features small decorative strokes or lines at the ends of each letter's main strokes. This characteristic gives serif fonts their distinctive look, often associated with more traditional or formal typography. The presence of serifs—these small embellishments—enhances the readability of text in printed materials, making serif fonts a popular choice for books, newspapers, and other long-form content.

While other options mention different font styles, they do not align with the defining characteristics of serif fonts. For instance, the option that describes fonts as being clean and sans decoration pertains to sans-serif fonts, which lack these decorative elements and are known for their modern, straightforward appearance. The exaggerated styles refer to decorative or display fonts that prioritize aesthetics over readability. Similarly, fonts that mimic handwriting fall into categories such as script or cursive fonts, which are designed to imitate the look of human writing rather than incorporating the formal detailing characteristic of serifs.