A method for automatically generating column layouts comprises obtaining, by a page layout computer, source code of an electronic document comprising content, in response to a request to activate a page layout of the electronic document and before receiving a first input indicating a modification to a layout of the electronic document, automatically inserting, by the page layout computer, a coded hierarchy into the source code of the electronic document specifying a single section and a single column including the content, receiving, by the page layout computer, the first input indicating the modification to the layout of the electronic document, based on the first input and by the page layout computer, modifying the source code, causing, by the page layout computer, generating an updated editing view of the electronic document that graphically represents the modification to the layout.