Hi Ian-
Just a further note on the points made in other posts as to rationale for
the alignment being as it is...
When working with the datasheet view of a table or query it gives you visual
feedback as to the data type of the field. If the content is aligned rt, it
has been defined as a value data type (such as Number, Date/Time, Currency),
whereas if it is flush left it is Text or something other than a value.
The fact that it is set that way by default & can't be changed prevents the
user from having to switch to Design View to be sure that Zip Codes haven't
been defined as Numbers, etc.
HTH |:>)