While text that is justified at both right and left margins has a tidier effect, text that is justified on the left with a ragged right is actually easier to read. This is due to the fact that all spacing is uniform and no words are broken to wrap onto the next line. Both of these devices, though allowing uniform right and left edges, slow the reader’s eye down as the brain processes these differences.
June 2006, V5#6: Design Friday, Jan 30 2009
Uncategorized brain, broken words, edge, eye, justification right margin, justified, left margin, line, ragged right, read, reader, spacing, text, uniform, wrap 2:35 pm
I agree… but how do you do it? I see the standard right, center, and left… but not full-justification.
The answer depends on what computer program (and version) you are using. Generic instructions are to look at format options, generally there is a paragraph designation. In paragraph, look for alignment. As you say, right, left, center are standard in almost everything. Word processors almost always additionally have justify, which is right and left justify. Some note programs, such as MS Notepad, may not have this option. If you still have difficulty, post what program you are using and we’ll see if we can’t get you a more specific answer.