Answer:
The preferred line length of a column of text in a document for best legibility is typically considered to be around 1-2 inches. This length allows for comfortable reading without the text appearing too stretched or cramped. Here's why:
1. 1-2 inches: This range provides a good balance between having enough characters per line to maintain reading flow and not having lines that are too long, which can make it difficult for the eye to track back to the beginning of the next line.
2. Examples:
- If the line length is too short (e.g., less than 1 inch), the text may look disjointed and require the reader to constantly shift their focus from the end of one line to the beginning of the next.
- If the line length is too long (e.g., more than 2 inches), it can lead to fatigue and decreased reading speed as the eyes have to travel a greater distance from the end of one line to the beginning of the next.
In summary, aiming for a line length of 1-2 inches in a document helps to maintain readability and ensure that readers can comfortably engage with the text without experiencing visual strain.
Explanation: