1 How to Double Space in Microsoft Word2 How to Double Space in Word Online3 Extra: How to Add Page Numbers in Word4 Extra: How to Remove or Clear Formatting in Word
A “Double spaced” document is a text with approximately twice the amount of vertical space between lines when compared to a standard document. In other words, there’s a full blank line between each row of text that an editor can write in. In typography, this space between lines is called “leading”. Double spacing is a practice that typists have used since the advent of typewriters in the 19th century. In fact, double-spaced documents used to be the standard due to the limitations of typewriters. It was only in the mid-20th century that publications standardized single spacing — primarily to cut the costs of mass printed material. It’s a good idea to use double spacing in situations where you expect somebody to edit or comment on your text in a professional capacity. This includes when writing an academic piece or essay, sending a novel to an agent or editor, or submitting content to a magazine. Legal documents are also typically doubled spaced. However, you can also double space in Word if you’re struggling to focus on your text. It’s worth noting, though, that this may not always help. Some studies suggest that the additional spacing between lines can make it easier for readers to lose their place in a text, rather than harder. Whatever spacing you choose, the important part is that it is consistent. A text with randomly differing leading is likely to confuse the reader’s eyes. It may be acceptable to use double spacing for quote blocks within a text, but different line spacing per chapter or section is almost always a bad idea. With all that said, let’s get into how to do double spacing in Word:
How to Double Space in Microsoft Word
How to Double Space in Word Online
Extra: How to Add Page Numbers in Word
If you’re sending your document off to a publication, page numbers are often a requirement, too. This is so editors or researchers can easily refer to a part of the text. You can read our full guide on how to add and modify page numbers in Word here.
Extra: How to Remove or Clear Formatting in Word
You may also find it necessary to remove or clear formatting in Word to make your piece consistent. You can do so quickly by following the linked guide.
