Format

The internal structure of a file, which defines the way it is stored and used. Specific applications may define unique formats for their data (i.e., MS Word document file format). Many files may only be viewed or printed using their originating application or an application designed to work with compatible formats. Computer storage systems commonly identify files by a naming convention that denotes the format (and therefore the probable originating application) (i.e., DOC for Microsoft Word document fi

The internal structure of a file, which defines the way it is stored and used. Specific applications may define unique formats for their data (i.e., "MS Word document file format"). Many files may only be viewed or printed using their originating application or an application designed to work with compatible formats. Computer storage systems commonly identify files by a naming convention that denotes the format (and therefore the probable originating application) (i.e., "DOC" for Microsoft Word document files; "XLS" for Microsoft Excel spreadsheet files; "TXT" for text files; and "HTM" (for Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) files such as Web pages). Users may choose alternate naming conventions, but this may affect how the files are treated by applications.

The pattern into which data are systematically arranged for use on a computer. A file format is the specific design of how information is organized in the file. For example, ARC/INFO has specific, proprietary formats used to store coverages. DLG, DEM, and TIGER are geographic data sets with different file formats.

A specification of how many spaces and digits and things to put somewhere so that whatever you're printing comes out nice and pretty.

The arrangement of information tracks on a tape as prescribed by a standard. The two most common categories of recording formats are longitudinal and helical scan.

The arrangement of bits or characters within a group, such as a word, message, or language. 2. The shape, size, and general makeup of a document.