Editing Formatted text (section)

==Formatted document files==
Since the invention of [[MacWrite]], the first [[WYSIWYG]] word processor, in which the typist codes the formatting visually rather than by inserting textual markup, word processors have tended to save to [[binary files]]. Opening such files with a [[text editor]] reveals them embedded with various binary characters, either around the formatted text (e.g. in [[WordPerfect]]) or separate from it, at the beginning or end of the file (e.g. in [[Microsoft Word]]).

Formatted text documents in binary files have, however, the disadvantages of formatting scope and secrecy. Whereas the extent of formatting is accurately marked in markup languages, [[WYSIWYG]] formatting is based on memory, that is, keeping for example your pressing of the boldface button until cancelled. This can lead to formatting mistakes and maintenance troubles.{{clarify|date=April 2025|reason=Why would this lead to mistakes or maintenance troubles?}}{{cn|date=April 2025}} As for secrecy, formatted text document file formats tend to be proprietary and undocumented, leading to difficulty in coding compatibility by third parties, and also to unnecessary upgrades because of version changes.

[[WordStar]] was a popular word processor that did not use binary files with hidden characters.

[[OpenOffice.org]] Writer saves files in an [[XML]] format. However, the resultant file is a binary since it is compressed (a [[tar (file format)|tar]]ball equivalent).

[[PDF]] is another formatted text file format that is usually binary (using compression for the text, and storing graphics and fonts in binary). It is generally an end-user format, written from an application such as [[Microsoft Word]] or [[OpenOffice.org]] Writer, and not editable by the user once done.