@findex set-goal-column
@kindex C-x C-n
Use the current column of point as the @dfn{semipermanent goal column}
-for @kbd{C-n} and @kbd{C-p} (@code{set-goal-column}). Henceforth,
-those commands always try move to this column, or as close as possible
-to it, after moving vertically. The goal column remains in effect
-until canceled.
+for @kbd{C-n} and @kbd{C-p} (@code{set-goal-column}). When a
+semipermanent goal column is in effect, those commands always try to
+move to this column, or as close as possible to it, after moving
+vertically. The goal column remains in effect until canceled.
@item C-u C-x C-n
Cancel the goal column. Henceforth, @kbd{C-n} and @kbd{C-p} try to
preserve the horizontal position, as usual.