Here's why:
* Even Appearance: Justified alignment makes the text appear more even and balanced, creating a visually appealing and professional look. This is especially important in newspaper layouts where multiple columns are placed side-by-side.
* Space Optimization: Justifying text allows for better space utilization by distributing words evenly across the column width. This helps to avoid large gaps between words and improve readability.
* Traditional Format: Justified text has long been the standard in newspaper design, contributing to the familiar and trusted aesthetic of printed news.
However, it's worth noting that justified alignment can sometimes lead to rivers of white space—unwanted gaps that run vertically down the column. This can be a drawback, especially when using large font sizes or complex layouts.
To address this issue, some newspapers use a combination of justified and left-aligned text, or they employ sophisticated typography techniques to minimize rivering.