Bootstrap 4 Beta: The Removal and Restoration of Column Offsetting

Bootstrap 4, in its Beta 1 release, introduced significant changes to the way columns were offset. However, with the subsequent release of Beta 2, these changes have been reversed.

From offset-md-* to ml-auto

In Bootstrap 4 Beta 1, the offset-md-* classes were removed. Instead, developers were encouraged to use the .ml-auto class to offset columns. However, this method did not provide the same level of precision as the previous approach.

Restoring Offset Classes in Beta 2

Fortunately, in Beta 2, the offset classes have been restored. The new syntax uses the format offset-{breakpoint}-, replacing the previous col-{breakpoint}-offset- syntax.

Custom Offsetting

To achieve custom column offsets, such as the now-deprecated <div>

Using Dummy Placeholders

<pre>
<div>

  <div>

</div>
</pre>

Using ml-auto and mr-auto

To center two adjacent columns, developers can apply ml-auto and mr-auto to both columns.

<pre>
<div>

    <div>

</div>
</pre>

Using mx-auto

To center a single column, developers can use mx-auto to create equal margins on both sides.

Conclusion

The removal and restoration of column offsets in Bootstrap 4 has created some temporary confusion for developers. However, with the reintroduction of specific offset classes in Beta 2, along with the availability of workaround methods, developers can continue to achieve custom column layouts in Bootstrap 4.