Re: Formatting Question

[Beverly Parks <bparks -at- HUACHUCA-EMH1 -dot- ARMY -dot- MIL>]

Stephen P. Victor wrote-->
> In my experience, a two column format doesn't take up much space more or less
>  than a single column. It just breaks up the page and can make it more
 difficult
>  to read. For a newspaper or magazine, such a format is acceptable, but I
>  wouldn't use it for a proposal.

> Are you thinking of adopting a two column format just to save space? If that's
>  the case, I would suggest reducing point size and inter-paragraph spacing,
 and
>  experimenting with margin widths. But unless absolutely necessary, don't try
 to
>  cram as much text as possible onto your pages. You might save some copying
>  costs, but you'll reduce the effectiveness of your document. Remember, white
>  space is your friend. :)
===============================

In general, a two-column format does allow more text to fit in
the same area. This is because the shorter line length allows you
to switch to a smaller point size. (You're almost required to
use a smaller point size; otherwise, you'd probably end up with
short, choppy lines containing only three or four words.) Also,
the gutter adds white space, which in turn gives a lighter feel
to the page. For an even lighter feel, use a ragged right margin
in the columns. Don't forget to adjust your leading.

    =*=  Beverly Parks =*= bparks -at- huachuca-emh1 -dot- army -dot- mil  =*=
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