Reformat

To reformat means to change the structure or organization of something, typically involving a significant alteration of its layout, style, or presentation. This could apply to text, data, a storage device, or even a process. The goal of reformatting is usually to improve clarity, efficiency, or compatibility. When referring to a computer's hard drive, reformatting typically involves erasing all existing data and setting up the drive anew. The term also extends to the revision of documents, the restructuring of arguments, or the reshaping of ideas to fit a particular context. It's a process of transformation and adaptation, often with a specific outcome or improved output in mind.

Reformat meaning with examples

• The journalist had to reformat his article to meet the new online publishing guidelines. This meant adjusting the headings, adding sub-sections and ensuring it was compatible with mobile devices. He also had to shorten the introduction and add an opening image to grab the readers attention. This was all designed to optimize the readability and appearance of the article online.
• After years of disuse, Sarah decided to reformat her old laptop's hard drive. She backed up all of her essential files and then wiped the disk, reinstalling the operating system. The laptop was then running faster and cleaner, giving it a new lease of life and allowing her to use the laptop for several more years. This process effectively reset the computer to its factory settings.
• The consultant suggested that the team reformat their presentation slides to incorporate more visuals and less text. They were encouraged to make the content easier to digest. By using a clean and modern design, they believed the message would be conveyed more effectively. The revised slides resulted in a much more engaging and impactful presentation.
• The company decided to reformat its customer feedback system, changing from written feedback to a more structured online survey format. They needed to improve data collection to gain more detailed insights. The survey format allowed for a greater degree of data analysis. This would help the company identify pain points and implement relevant process improvements.