How much flexibility is there in text / number alignment for non-tables?

1. Should numbers in tables be right aligned?
2. Should numbers be left aligned?
3. How should numbers be aligned?
4. What is the use of alignment?

Should numbers in tables be right aligned?

Typography. Generally, you should align text left and numbers right. This way it's easier to differentiate between the two and numbers are easier to compare. In addition to that, you should align the table headers according to their column data as that makes your table more structural.

Should numbers be left aligned?

Alignment Matters

This is also how most people learn arithmetic — start on the right and move left, carrying digits as you go[1]. Therefore, tables should keep numerical data right-aligned. Textual data is read (in English) from left-to-right.

How should numbers be aligned?

Always right-align headings and data in columns so that units, tens, hundreds and thousands are aligned and numbers of equal value are easily comparable.

What is the use of alignment?

Alignment determines the appearance and orientation of the edges of the paragraph: left-aligned text, right-aligned text, centered text, or justified text, which is aligned evenly along the left and right margins.