Is it better that the numbers are right-aligned? This seems more of an accounting requirement than a design one. With left alignment, the numerals for either the single-digit steps or the double-digit steps do not line up with the left margin grid. If, as in my template, the <n> step format aligns with the body left paragraph margins, this means either the first step or the last step (if it's double-digit) do not left-align with the introductory or summarizing text.
I've tried this both ways in my docs. The only benefit to right-alignment is that the gap between the step number and the step text stays consistent when the steps go to two digits. With left-alignment, this means the single-digit steps have a slightly wider gap than the double-digit steps. Steps in the printed FM docs left-align with the body text. It appears they use an em-space after the number, because there is a consistent amount of white space after the number -- the first line of step 10 is more indented than lines 1-9, but by the same amount. (FM 7.0 UG, p 509) This seems to be the format for <A> steps also (p 8). Subsequent lines in steps wrap back to the left margin so there is not an issue with aligning to a hanging indent. Whenever there are procedures with more than 9 steps (which can't be avoided sometimes :) ), the longer numerals simply have to move to either the left or the right. IMHO, it's more pleasing to the eye to maintain the left margin grid. Joanne -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:framers-bounces+joanne=exeros.com at lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Steve Rickaby Sent: Monday, April 24, 2006 7:47 AM To: framers at FrameUsers.com Subject: Alignment of list numbers On seeing some FrameMaker output, an experienced proofreader has commented on the fact that for numbered lists that run into two digits, the numbers are left-aligned, rather than right-aligned - the implication is that, for example, '9' should be aligned above the '0' of '10'. I must admit that this thought had not crossed my mind before, but of course it's true. I've just checked a book set in Quark, and list numbers do indeed right-align. As FrameMaker can only apply justification at the paragraph tag level, and not at the character tag level, I cannot see a simple method of achieving the desired alignment. Does anyone have any ideas? -- Steve _______________________________________________ You are currently subscribed to Framers as joanne at exeros.com. Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/joanne%40exeros.com Send administrative questions to lisa at frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
