Flush left, also known as ranged left or align left, is a text alignment where the left edge of the text matches the left margin while the right edge is uneven. On the other hand, flush right, also called ranged right or align right, aligns the right edge with the right margin while keeping the left edge ragged.
The purpose of using flush left/right in publishing is to create visually pleasing and easily readable pages. Justified text can be challenging to read due to irregular word and letter spacing that results in distracting “rivers” of white space on the page. Ranged text solves this issue by aligning both sides with their respective margins.
Creating RL or RR text is possible through most word processing programs; however, professional typesetting software offers more layout control for precise margins and other elements. When working with RL or RR text, it’s essential to maintain balance across the page to prevent a lopsided appearance that hampers readability.
Although RL and RR offer visual appeal compared to fully justified text, they require careful typesetting. Achieving consistent margins throughout and proper alignment near book spines can be challenging tasks. Thus, publishers may limit usage of this style to specific book genres or leave such decisions to experienced typesetters.
Ranged Left/Right plays a crucial role in books and publishing processes by streamlining workflow efficiency when creating texts. This method ensures correct page order without requiring manual sorting that goes into printing preparation—a time-saving practice resulting in cost reduction.