Formatting: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'format' comes from the Latin word 'formatus', meaning 'to shape or form'.
• In the 1970s, the word started being commonly used in the context of computers and documents.
• The different formats we use today, like PDF or Word, were developed to improve how we share and present information.

Technology

• Formatting a disk drive means preparing it to store information, often erasing previous data.
• Software like Microsoft Word and Google Docs provide formatting tools to help users customize documents easily.
• Responsive web design is a modern formatting approach, allowing websites to look good on any device, such as phones or tablets.

Education

• Formatting guidelines are crucial in academic writing, ensuring clarity and consistency.
• Students often learn formatting styles like APA or MLA to structure their essays and reports more effectively.
• Proper formatting can enhance readability, making it easier for teachers to understand students' work.

Psychology

• Organized and well-formatted information is more likely to be remembered by readers than disorganized text.
• Visual formatting, like bullet points and headings, helps reduce cognitive load, making content easier to digest.
• Studies show that the aesthetics of a document influence how readers perceive its credibility and importance.

Art

• In graphic design, formatting involves choosing fonts, colors, and layouts that convey a specific message or emotion.
• Artists often use formatting principles to present their work in galleries, ensuring that lighting and spacing highlight their pieces effectively.
• The formatting of advertisements is crucial—good design can catch attention and communicate messages quickly and efficiently.

With rank #17,160, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 17157 antipathy
• 17158 betraying
• 17159 unattended
• 17160 formatting
• 17161 unsolicited
• 17162 salty
• 17163 unveiled
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