Solutions · practical reference

Resolve awkward line endings

Distinguish an isolated boundary line from a visually weak last line, then assess the whole reflow.

Goal
A better paragraph or page boundary without moving the defect into neighbouring text.
Starting profile
Book / long-form
Include
White Space + Styles

Prepare a representative pass

Distinguish an isolated boundary line from a visually weak last line, then assess the whole reflow. Use a saved working copy, identify the intended active document, and check the inspection scope before interpreting a result. A profile is an inspection brief, not a command to repair the document.

Follow the workflow

  1. Inspect a representative chapter with the intended scope and whole-story policy. Read the exact Copyfit finding and coverage.
  2. Locate the affected paragraph and page/frame boundary. Determine whether the concern is a widow/orphan, a short last line or another fit constraint.
  3. Check paragraph-style Keep Options and the design intention in InDesign. A short caption or title can legitimately have a different shape.
  4. If the selected compatible finding offers Preview fix or Explore fixes, read its goal, target and Before/After evidence.
  5. Compare the strategy and side effects. A small improvement at the target is insufficient if it creates overset or an unacceptable break elsewhere.
  6. Apply an eligible result or make a deliberate manual adjustment. Inspect again and review the surrounding spread and threaded story.

How to recognize a finished pass

  • The actual boundary concern is identified.
  • The target improves without unacceptable downstream reflow.
  • Final evidence uses the same intended scope and policy.

Where judgement matters

  • Minimum paragraph length for short-ending review is not a widow definition.
  • A goal name does not promise that a safe candidate exists.
Does a finding mean I must change the document?

No. Check intent, scope, current evidence and available actions. Retaining an intentional occurrence can be the correct decision. Record the supported review status when useful; it does not edit the source text.

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