Single-column layout
One clear stream of content running down the page, with no second column or sidebar competing beside it.
See it
What it is
A single-column layout gives the page one primary vertical stream. Headings, copy, images, and actions arrive in a clear top-to-bottom order, with no neighboring region competing for attention. A Medium article is the familiar shape.
Reach for it when the job is reading, completing a focused form, or moving through a short sequence. It is especially dependable on small screens because there is almost nothing to rearrange.
Gotcha: one column does not mean full width. Long lines are tiring, so give prose a sensible measure and center that measure inside the page. A long unbroken stack can also feel flat; headings, spacing, and occasional full-width media still need to create rhythm.
Ask AI for it
Build a single-column page with one main element in source order. Set the reading container to max-inline-size: 65ch and margin-inline: auto, use display: flex with flex-direction: column and gap for the vertical rhythm, and let images use inline-size: 100%. Keep body copy left aligned and allow only intentional media to break out wider than the text measure.