Tab alignments and symbols
InDesign provides four tab alignments, and each one has its own symbol.
When you hit the Tab key and it goes to a left-aligned tab, the insertion point goes to the tab marker and the text types to the right (it aligns on the left). Notice the visual clue of the direction of the tail on the symbol—it shows you which direction the type will head.
When you hit the Tab key and it goes to a right-aligned tab, the insertion point goes to the tab marker and the text types to the left (it aligns on the right).
When you hit the Tab key and it goes to a centered tab, the insertion point goes to the tab marker and the text types outward on both sides of the marker.
When you hit the Tab key and it goes to a decimal tab, the insertion point goes to the tab marker. The text extends to the left until you type a decimal (a period), then the text continues on the other side, typing to the right.
The following pages walk you through exercises to become familiar with these tabs. As I’ve mentioned before, it is worth your time to become proficient!