Rhythm and variety affect how engaging the content is for users. The more attractive the layout, the more likely users spend time exploring the site or using the interface.
Variety in the presentation of the content applies to any interface. A long, monotonous list on a mobile screen is not attractive to read, and users scroll through it. Mix uniformity with callouts, backgrounds, and unusual blocks that stand out is always better.
Sometimes, the rhythm doesn’t have to break the content itself. You can put callouts and images outside the layout to make the text more appealing, and the text can be read without interruption.
For long texts, it’s good to use the outset for images, media, quotes, and any other blocks that are different from the text. It also makes the text column more interesting, changes the rhythm, and doesn’t break the reading.
Generally speaking, any block with different parameters is a good technique and can be used in any interface. For example, a large quote or testimonial will stand out among other content and will add appeal to the monotonous rhythm.
It’s the same with lists. They can make various long text or act as independent interface blocks.
Just don’t go overboard. This is especially true for long reads. Users have come to read the text and don’t like to be interrupted by animated callouts or quotes that take all their attention. It gets in the way of reading; here, variety and rhythm disruption play a destructive role. Everything has to be in balance and with adequate contrast.
Adding variety to the design is about the whole layout and the details in the content. Small text columns with features are always more interesting than brick text.
You can make any text attractive in different ways and small details, including those in cards, in snippets of news articles, or description texts on dashboards. Such little things draw attention to a piece of text and make users want to read it with more desire.