At best, this is a question I’m asked; more often, it’s a criticism of my writing. So why do I do it? The simple answer is that I find block formatting with paragraph spacing easier to read and comprehend than indenting.
What is Indentation Formatting?
Indentation is the use of white space to indicate important aspects of text, such as the beginning of a paragraph, hierarchy, or quotation. It’s often used in formal writing, like style guides, and can give a polished visual effect to the work. For instance, in fiction, the first line of a paragraph may not be indented, but the first lines of subsequent paragraphs typically are. Indentation is also used in block quotations, where the entire block is indented 0.5 inches and double-spaced.
Pick up any fiction work in Barnes & Noble, and you’ll see this formatting style in the vast majority of books.
What is Block Formatting?
Block formatting is a method of creating paragraphs that uses white space between each paragraph, instead of indents. It’s often used in business letters, where the entire text is left-aligned and single-spaced, with double spaces between paragraphs.
Pick up any non-fiction work, technical manual, or study aid, and you’ll often find this formatting. It’s more prevalent online than in traditional print.
Should you use Block Formatting or Indent Paragraphs?
While indentation formatting has its merits and is widely used in certain genres, I prefer block formatting for its clarity and ease of reading. The extra space between paragraphs provides a clear visual break that helps readers like myself process information more effectively. In a world where digital content is consumed rapidly, and often on screens of various sizes, block formatting offers a straightforward, user-friendly reading experience.
Ultimately, the choice between block formatting and indentation comes down to personal preference and the context in which the writing is being presented. That is to say, you do you boo.
Hachi + Araine // The Dream Series (3 book series) Kindle Edition