Final answer:
In formal writing, text should be left-justified according to standard block formatting guidelines, using a readable font like size 12 Times New Roman or Arial, with single spacing and double spacing between paragraphs without indenting.
Step-by-step explanation:
The alignment of text in a document should generally be guided by the context and purpose of the writing. In formal documents, such as business letters, the standard format is block formatting, where everything is left-justified. This means that all lines of text begin at the left margin, and the right margin will have uneven spacing. The text should be single spaced with double spacing between paragraphs and do not indent the beginning of each paragraph. Choose a font that's easy to read, such as Times New Roman or Arial in size 12. When creating reference pages or bibliographies, starting each entry at the left margin and indenting subsequent lines one-half inch is standard practice.
Moreover, it is important to acknowledge the historical and artistic context in which text alignment can vary, such as with ancient scribes who adjusted spacing to balance the visual appeal of a page. However, for modern academic and formal writing, including essays and reports, standard formatting rules typically apply.
In summary, while there may be certain stylistic freedoms in literary, artistic, or historical contexts, for standard formal writing the guidelines are quite clear.