1. In a data processing system for composing documents, said data processing system including means for entering data and commands relating to a document to be composed, data processor means for processing said data and for executing commands, and a plurality of output means for presenting the document, a method for composing a document comprising multiple lines of alphanumeric characters, said document having portions in which there is need for a plurality of distinct, data presentation characteristic defining formats, each format defining a geometric and topological structural arrangement of alphanumeric textural data, said method for composing a document comprising the steps of: a. associating a first abstract format name with a first format upon entry of said first abstract name via said means for entering; b. defining by an operator a first set of data presentation characteristics for a first output means for at least a first portion of the document and associating said first set of data presentation characteristics with said first abstract format name during an abstract format name characteristic specification by an operator; c. defining by an operator a second set of data presentation characteristics, which are independent from said first set of data presentation characteristics for a second output means for at least a first portion of the document, without affecting the data presentation characteristics defined for said first output means, and associating said second set of data presentation characteristics with said first abstract format name during said abstract name characteristic specification; d. associating with every line in the document an abstract format name which is linked to a data presentation characteristic defining format; e. using said abstract format name characteristic specification to display the document during composition in a form substantially the same as the final format display; and f. responding to the entry of said first abstract format name during document production by formatting the lines in the document on the first output means to have said first set of data presentation characteristics associated with said first abstract format name and formatting the lines in the document on the second output means to have said second set of data presentation characteristics associated with said first abstract format name.