Reflowable

Reflowable describes digital content whose layout can dynamically adjust to the size of the viewing area and user preferences without losing the reading order. In reflowable content, text flows into the available width and line breaks are recalculated as the viewport changes, and as a reader changes font size, margins, or other settings. This contrasts with fixed-layout content, where the positions of text and images are predetermined and do not reflow with display changes.

Common in e-books and web content, reflowable formats are designed to maximize readability across devices. In publishing, formats such as EPUB 3 and HTML-based readers are typically reflowable, allowing content to adapt to smartphones, tablets, and desktop screens. Implementation relies on semantic markup and CSS typography, often employing responsive design techniques to ensure consistent reading order and accessibility.

Advantages include improved readability on small screens, easier accommodation of assistive technologies, and a customizable reading experience. Reflowable text also supports reflow with different font sizes and user-selected styles, which can aid accessibility.

Limitations include less predictability for complex layouts that rely on precise image placement, multi-column arrangements, or fixed page designs. In such cases, publishers may offer fixed-layout alternatives or separate formats to preserve visual design. Overall, reflowable content emphasizes flexible presentation and accessibility, prioritizing the reader’s ability to adjust the reading experience.