Which comes first - tabs or text? Is it easier to type your text then set tabs or set tabs then type the text? There really is no right or wrong method. I personally find it easier to work by typing my text, using the default tab settings, then highlighting that text and applying the new tab settings. You may prefer to get all the tabs in place, then start typing and tabbing. Do remember though, that for right, center, and decimal tabs your text may appear to 'jump around' as you type. It's because each character you type is changing position to align properly with those tab stops. Not a problem as long you know to expect it.
Setting Tabs
Each software program has its own method of setting tabs but most will offer options that allow you to add, delete, or move tabs by typing in precise measurements or by simply moving tab symbols on a ruler. The tab commands are usually found under a Text or a Format menu.
Tab Alignments
Before setting and using tabs, get familiar with the 4 most common tab alignment options: left (default), right, center, and decimal. The blue lines in each image on the next pages represent where the tabs are set. Some software programs may have additional options and mixing the types of tabs you use can simplify or improve on some formatting tasks.
