With the default set-up, Math objects are inserted on a Writer document with a huge space before and after them. In order to get rid of that space for ever (at least, on new objects), you need to follow two simple steps:
- Open the stylist (F11) and go to the “Frame styles” (the third button from left to right). There, edit (Right click -> Modify) the style “Formula”. On the “Wrap” tab, set the left and right spacing to zero. Finally, save that document as your default template.
- Open (or create) a Math object and go to Format -> Spacing. Under “Category” you must select “Borders” and set the spacing to zero. Finally, press the “Default” button.
There is an old (and still unresolved) issue about alignment for Math objects ( Issue 972 ): Specially when there is no equal sign, the alignment with the text could be very bad. There is no “automatic” solution, but you can change the object's position easily and with high precision by selecting it and using Alt+Arrow keys (Yes, that use of the Alt key is documented: on the OOo help, look for “objects;moving/resizing using keyboard”)
Edit: (February, 2012) AOO 3.4 will include automated alignment of Math objects on Writer documents. A new option (enabled by default on new documents) under Tools → Options → Writer → Formatting aids → Layout assistance → Math baseline alignment is introduced. |