baselinealignment

Baseline alignment refers to aligning the baselines of characters in text to create a consistent horizontal rhythm across lines and blocks. It is a core concept in typography, typesetting, and interface design.

The baseline is the invisible line on which most letters sit, while ascenders extend above and descenders below. Baseline alignment coordinates multiple lines and elements to sit on a shared reference, improving readability and visual harmony. Techniques include using a baseline grid, consistent leading or line-height, and typographic metrics like ascent, descent, and baseline offset.

In digital layouts, baseline alignment governs how text lines align with icons, images, and other inline elements. CSS supports baseline alignment via vertical-align: baseline, and design tools offer baseline grids to ensure blocks line up across columns.

Challenges arise when mixing fonts with different metrics, or combining Latin and non-Latin scripts with distinct baselines. Optical alignment adjustments may be used to compensate for perceived misalignment, while employing baseline grids and modular rhythm.

Proper baseline alignment enhances legibility, perceived order, and consistency in both print and screen environments, supporting efficient reading and a coherent visual structure in multi-element compositions.