Extreme variability in line length may slow reading by disrupting the rhythm of eye movements, particularly of return sweeps.

New York University

- Text Chunking
- Text Line Length
- Line-length variability

Text Format Factors Related to Reading Comprehension

"Chunking" is the process of storing the largest meaningful unit of information in short-term memory. Chunking allows more information to be perceived and processed and allows perception and recall of idea units rather than letters or single words.

Effect of Chunking on Reading Comprehension

Medium length lines may help reading efficiency. Return sweeps may be more accurate when lines are of medium length because the eye can see the beginning of the next line in peripheral vision when it is at the end of a line.

Effect of Line Length on Reading Comprehension

Effect of Line-length Variability on Reading

- Chunking appears to be an advantage when line length and variability are held constant
- Medium-length lines are an advantage in reading when chunking and line-length variability are held constant
- Low line-length variability (i.e. a regular margin) may be an advantage in reading
- The advantage of chunking can be outweighed by the disadvantage of line-length variability

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