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How to Double Space on Google Docs

Look under Format to get started or just use the Line Spacing icon on the toolbar

how to double space essay docs

  • Western Kentucky University
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  • Use the Format Menu
  • Double Space From the Toolbar
  • Change Line Spacing on Mobile
  • Extra: Use Other Spacing
  • Reasons to Double Space

What to Know

  • In a browser: Go to Format -> Line & Paragraph Spacing -> Double.
  • From the toolbar: Highlight the text, then click the Line Spacing icon and click Double.

In Google Docs, the default is 1.15 spaces between lines. If you need additional space, this article explains how to double space instead.

How to Double Space on Google Docs Using the Format Menu

Most people using a word processing application like Google Docs will head straight for the format menu when they want to change something about the format of the document. You can use this menu to change the line spacing of your document, or to create new default formatting , too.

Open an existing document or create a new document in Google Docs and place your cursor where you want the double-spacing to begin.

If you already have text in your document that you would like to reformat to have double spacing, highlight all the text you want to change.

Then select the Format menu.

In the Format menu hover your cursor over Line & Paragraph Spacing and then choose Double.

How to Double Space In Google Docs From the Toolbar

Although using the Format menu to double-space documents in Google Docs is easier, there's an even easier way. It involves using the Formatting toolbar at the top of the page.

Open an existing document or create a new document in Google Docs and place your cursor where you want the double-spacing to begin. You can also highlight existing text to change it to double spaced format if you like.

Click the Line Spacing icon in the formatting toolbar.

Choose Double from the spacing menu that appears.

Changing Line Spacing in Google Docs on Mobile Devices

Google Docs on mobile devices like Android or iOS works a little differently than it does when you're using it in a web browser. Line spacing also behaves differently, but it's still not difficult to change.

You only have four options for line spacing when working with documents on a mobile device. They are 1 , 1.15 , 1.5 , and 2 . You cannot apply custom formatting using a mobile device.

Open your document in Google Docs on your mobile device and tap the Edit (pencil) icon in the lower right corner.

Select the Format icon at the top of the next page.

Then tap Paragraph in the Format menu that appears and use the up and down arrows next to the Line spacing number to adjust your line spacing for the document. This will change the line spacing for the paragraph where your cursor is. To change another paragraph, you'll need to repeat the process.

When Other Types of Spacing Are Needed

Single and double spacing aren't the only options you have in Google Docs. Whether you're working with the Line spacing option in the Format menu or on the toolbar, you have some other options too.

You're first met with quick line spacing options for Single , 1.15 , 1.5 , and Double . These quick selections are the most commonly used line spacing options, but you can choose Custom Spacing to create a line spacing that's unique to your needs to fit the document that you're creating.

Custom Spacing opens a Custom spacing dialog box that lets you set the line spacing as well as the spacing before and after a paragraph. This will be applied to the highlighted text or to any text after you've made changes until you change these options again.

Additionally, in both menus you have the option to Add a space before a paragraph or Add a space after a paragraph . This automatically adds space at the beginning or end (or both) of paragraphs on a hard return.

You can also choose how line spacing affects the flow of your document by choosing how each line will behave when you create a new page. You can choose to Keep with next , Keep lines together , or Prevent single lines .

All of these options will affect how paragraphs are broken up when you reach the end of a page and begin a new one.

Why Use Double Space on Google Docs

While the standard formatting in Google Docs is often good enough for most purposes, there may be other reasons to make the spaces between lines larger. Probably the greatest of those reasons is to have extra space for editing.

In most cases, double spacing is standard during the drafting phase of a document, especially large documents like lengthy papers or even book manuscripts. It's time like this, when you need extra space, that it's good to know all the ways you can double space on Google Docs.

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How to double-space in Google Docs

how to double space in google docs macbook

Whether for personal preference or as a requirement for the APA or MLA writing style, we’ll show you how to double-space in Google Docs.

Double-space in Google Docs on the web

Double-space in google docs in the mobile app.

The nice part about this format in Google Docs is that you can apply it to the entire document or only selected blocks of text. Plus, you can double-space in Google Docs on the web and in the mobile app.

What You Need

Web browser

Google account

Google Docs mobile app (optional)

Quick answer: If you're on the web client and want to get things done fast, all you need to do is click "Format" at the top, go to "Line & paragraph spacing" and then select "Double".

Read on for a more visual guide and to learn more about the procedure.

Head to Google Docs on the web , sign in, and open your document or create a new one.

Step 1: If you already have text on the page, select all relevant text in your document that you want to transform to double-spacing.

Step 2: Go to the toolbar and select the Line and paragraph spacing button or go to the Format menu and choose Line and paragraph spacing .

Step 3: Select Double using either the drop-down or pop-out menu.

Step 4: Your selected text or new document now have double-spacing applied. You can follow the same steps to choose a different line spacing option later if you like.

If you use the Google Docs mobile app on Android or iPhone, you can apply double-spacing to your document there as well. Open the app and follow these steps.

Step 1: Create a new document or open an existing one. Select the Edit button (pencil icon) on the bottom right to enter edit mode.

Step 2: If you have existing text that you want to double-space, select it. You can tap and hold a word on Android or double-tap one on iPhone and then drag the small blue circle through the text.

If this is a new document without text, move onto the next step.

Step 3: Tap the Format icon at the top, which is an uppercase A with four lines on Android and an uppercase underlined A on iPhone.

Step 4: In the formatting tools that appear at the bottom, select Paragraph .

Step 5: Next to Line spacing , tap the Arrow on the far right pointing up until you reach 2 or 2.00 .

You can then select a spot in your document or the Format button to close the tools at the bottom.

Follow the same process to choose a different line spacing option later if needed.

Now that you know how to double-space in Google Docs, find out how to apply strikethrough in Google Docs or how to select more than one portion of text .

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Maybe you’re trying to make text more prominent in your document or want a uniform appearance for certain portions of content. Unlike Microsoft Word, Google Docs doesn’t currently provide a built-in text box feature, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done.

We’ll show you a few ways to insert a text box in Google Docs. Each has its pros and cons, which we’ll also explain, so that you can use the best option for your document.

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How to double space in Google Docs on desktop or mobile, or add custom spacing

  • You can double space in Google Docs using the "Line spacing" menu.
  • The Line spacing menu lets you add double spacing, single spacing, and a variety of other styles.
  • The Google Docs mobile app lets you enable double spacing too, but in a more limited way.

Google Docs is one of the most popular word processors available today. This isn't hard to understand, considering that its tools and features are all pretty easy to use.

One of the most popular features in word processors is line spacing. And luckily, if you need to double space your Google Doc, you can do so in just a few clicks.

Google Docs offers a variety of spacing options. On both the website and mobile app, you can set your line spacing at 1.00, 1.15, 1.5, or 2.00 — a range from single spacing to double spacing. And on the website, you can even set a custom spacing style, or give extra spacing to specific paragraphs.

Here's how to do it using either the website or mobile app.

How to double space on the Google Docs website

As noted above, the Google Docs website gives you much more control over your line spacing. So if possible, this is the best way to edit your documents.

1. Open the Google Doc you want to edit, or create a new one.

2. In the toolbar near the top of the screen, click the icon that looks like a vertical arrowed line with three lines next to it. This is the Line spacing menu.

3. Select the spacing style that you want from the presets, or click Custom spacing . This lets you input your own spacing value, both between lines and paragraphs; click Apply when you're done here.

You can also use the Add space and Remove space options to set how much space you want between paragraphs. This lets you have different spacing styles for lines and paragraphs.

How to double space in the Google Docs app

1. In the Google Docs app, open or create the file you want to edit.

2. While in editing mode, tap the capital A icon at the top of the screen.

3. Tap the word "Paragraph" in the pop-up window.

4. To the right of the words "Line spacing," tap the up arrow until the number reads 2.00 to get double spacing. You're restricted to the preset values here — you can't set custom spacing.

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8 Ways to Double Space in Google Docs on App and Website

how to double space essay docs

For such a lightweight application, Google’s famed text editor, Google Docs, is loaded with an abundance of little features. It lets you write in various fonts, draw, effortlessly increase readability, and so much more.

Today, we’ll be taking a look at one neat and important Google Docs settings — help you add double spaces to your documents whenever you need to. Let’s get started!

How to double space in Google Docs on the website on a PC

Unlike most text editors out there, Google Docs doesn’t automatically assign single-line spacing when you’re creating a new document. It assigns a line-spacing value of 1.15, which it believes is the sweet spot between efficiency and readability.

However, if that’s not good enough, and you’re looking to double the space in between, there are two neat ways of achieving that. Let’s take a look at each method, you can follow either section below to help you along with the process!

Method 1: Using the toolbar

If you want the quickest way of increasing line spacing in your document, look no further than the Google Docs toolbar.

Short guide:

  • Google Docs ( docs.google.com ) > Select document > Line-spacing icon > Select Double.

Step-by-step guide:

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you use double space in your document using the toolbar. Follow the steps below to help you along with the process.

how to double space essay docs

And that’s it! Double Space will now be used across the entire document.

Related: How to Cross Out Text in Google Docs on PC, Android and iPhone

Method 2: Using the Format menu

You can also double-space a document in Google Docs using the Format option from the menu bar. Follow the steps below to help you along with the process.

  • Google Docs ( docs.google.com ) > Select Document > Format > Line & paragraph spacing > Select Double.

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you use the Format menu to double-space a document. Follow the steps below to help you along with the process.

how to double space essay docs

And that’s it! Double spacing will now be applied across the entire document.

Related: How to insert a checkbox in Google Docs on PC or mobile

How to double space in Google Docs app on iPhone or Android

You can also double-space documents when using the mobile app whether on an Android or iOS device. Follow the relevant section below depending on your current device to help you along with the process.

Method 3: On iOS

If you’re using an iOS device then here’s how you can double-space a document in Google Docs using the mobile app. Follow either guide below to help you along with the process depending on your current device.

  • Google Docs > Edit > Format > Paragraph > Use ^ arrow to set line spacing as 2.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you double-space a document in Google Docs. Follow the steps below to help you along with the process.

how to double space essay docs

Related: How to center a table in Google Docs on PC or mobile app

Method 4: On Android

If you’re using an Android device then here’s how you can double-space a document. Follow either guide below to help you along with the process.

  • Google Docs > Edit > Format > Paragraph > Line spacing > Use ^ to set the Line spacing value as 2.

The step-by-step guide below should help you use double space in a document easily on your Android device. Follow the steps below to help you along with the process.

how to double space essay docs

And that’s it! The selected document will now be double-spaced on your Android device.

Related: How to Make a Survey on Google Docs

How to double space selected text or paragraph in Google Docs on the web on a PC

There might be times when you only wish to double-space a certain part of your document. You can use any of the guides below to do so on your PC. Let’s get started!

Method 5: Using the toolbar

  • Google Docs ( docs.google.com ) > Select document > Select the text you want to double space > Line spacing icon > Select Double.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you double-space only a portion of your document in Google Docs on your PC. Follow the steps below to help you along with the process.

how to double space essay docs

And that’s how you can double-space a portion of the document using the toolbar.

Related: Insert a shape in Google Docs: Step-by-step guide

Method 6: Using the Format menu

You can also double-space a portion of the document using the Format menu. Follow either guide below to help you along with the process.

  • Google Docs (docs.google.com) > Select document > Select the text you want to double space > Format > Line & paragraph spacing > Double.

The step-by-step guide below will help you easily double-space a portion of your document. Follow the steps below to help you along with the process.

how to double space essay docs

And that’s it! The selected portion of the document will now be double-spaced.

Related: How to Merge Cells in Google Docs on Mac, Windows, Android or iOS

How to double space selected text or paragraph in Google Docs app on iPhone or Android

You can also double-space a portion of the document when using your mobile device. Follow either guide below depending on your current device to help you along with the process.

Method 7: On iOS

If you’re an iPhone user then here’s how you can double-space a portion of a document in the Google Docs app.

  • Google Docs > Select document > Edit > Select the text you want to double space > Format > Paragraph > Tap ^ arrow and set Line spacing as 2.

The step-by-step guide below should help you double-space a portion of your document easily. Let’s get started!

how to double space essay docs

And that’s it! The selected part of the document will now be double-spaced on your iPhone.

Related: How to use voice typing on Google Docs on Windows, Mac, iPhone or Android

Method 8: On Android

You can double-space a portion of a document using the Google Docs app on your Android device. Follow either guide below to help you along with the process.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you easily double-space a portion of a document on your Android device.

how to double space essay docs

And that’s how you can double space a portion of a document in the Google Docs app on your Android device.

How to use double space in a document on a Chromebook

If you’re a Chromebook user, the process is similar to the Android guides in the article above. As a Chromebook user, you can use the Google Docs web client in your preferred browser for a desktop experience. Alternatively, you can also download the dedicated Google Docs app from the Play Store if you prefer. When using the Google Docs app, you can use the Andriod guides mentioned in the sections above.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Double Spacing in Google Docs

how to double space essay docs

Double-line spacing is often used in academic documents to make it easier to read and comment on. Use double spaces in Google Docs with this guide.

Proper formatting is an important aspect to consider when you’re creating any document. Sometimes, you might need to consider adjusting the spacing between lines to make your document easier to read or to meet specific formatting requirements.

Thankfully, Google Docs makes it easy to adjust the line spacing in your document. One option is to double space, which inserts an extra line between each line of text you insert.

If you want to know how to double space in Google Docs, follow the steps below.

Using Formatting Options

Double spacing refers to inserting an extra line break between each line of text in a document. This can make the text easier to read and help ensure that the document meets certain formatting guidelines.

In Google Docs, you can use the Formatting Options menu to double-space your text.

To double-space your text in Google Docs:

  • Open your Google Docs document .
  • Select any existing text manually using your mouse.
  • If you want to apply the changes to your entire document, press Ctrl + A .
  • In the top menu, click Format and select Line & Paragraph Spacing from the drop-down menu.

Set double line spacing in Google Docs

  • If you want to customize the spacing further, select Custom Spacing instead and adjust the line spacing to your desired measurement.

Once you’ve applied the change, your text will update to use double spacing. Repeat these steps if you want to reverse the change and choose Single spacing instead.

How to Set Double Spaces as the Default in Google Docs

Want to use double line spacing as the default choice for the text you write in all Google Docs documents? You can update the default Google Docs formatting to always use double spaces in your documents.

This won’t apply to any documents you’ve already created, however. If you want to update those, you’ll need to follow the above steps.

To set double spaces as the default in Google Docs:

  • Manually select a portion of text that has  Normal text  formatting applied. This is the standard text you’d write in your document in paragraphs, but it must exclude any headings.
  • Click Format from the top menu and select Line & Paragraph Spacing from the drop-down menu.
  • With double line spacing applied, click the Styles menu on the toolbar.

Update default line spacing in Google Docs

Creating Better Google Docs Documents

You should now be able to use double spaces in your Google Docs document, thanks to the steps we’ve outlined above.

Looking for other methods to help you create your document? For example, you could display the word count while you’re typing in Google Docs to help you keep track of your progress. This can be especially helpful for longer documents.

You could also transfer the ownership of a document in Google Docs when you’re finished working on it. If you want to hide your previous edits, you can easily delete the version history in Google Docs .

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How to Double Space

Last Updated: April 17, 2024

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 178,501 times. Learn more...

Whether you are writing an essay for school or a narrative report for work, you have to choose line spacing for any written work. Most people prefer to write with a double space between lines, because it makes it easier for the reader to follow the flow of the text. How you format your spacing depends on the word processing program you are using. Double space your work by setting up the right parameters for either an entire document or a selected amount of text.

Double Spacing in Microsoft Word

Step 1 Open up the document you are working on.

  • Look in the Styles group on the toolbar. On the home tab, right-click on Normal. Once a menu pops up, click on Modify.
  • Look for the Formatting prompt and click the Double Space button.
  • Click OK. This will set your entire document in a double space format.

Step 3 Create an area within your document where you want double spacing.

  • Highlight the text you want to double space.
  • Click on Line and Paragraph Spacing, which can be found in the Paragraph group of the Home tab.
  • Click on the 2.0 option. This will double space the area of the document you have highlighted.

Double Spacing in WordPerfect Programs

Step 1 Use the Line...

  • Place your cursor on the very top of the page if you want the entire document to be double spaced. Everything will be double spaced until you reset it to something else, such as 1.0 for single spacing.

Double Spacing in Google Docs

Step 1 Open up Google Docs in your web browser.

  • Click on Create New if you are starting a new document and you want to use double spacing.

Step 3 Select the area of text you want to double space by highlighting it.

  • Choose the last option, or 2.0. This is the value for double spacing.

Community Q&A

Community Answer

  • Read instructions on double spacing for other word processing programs that are not in the Word, Wordperfect or Google families. Searching within the Help menu of most programs will provide instructions. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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6 Steps to Ensure You Never Lose a Microsoft Office File Again

Microsoft office vs. google docs, sheets, slides: which is best, can the galaxy watch actually measure stress (how), quick links, what is double-spacing, option 1: configure document to automatically double space, option 2: double space with a keyboard shortcut, option 3: double-space by editing the text properties.

If you need to add some line spacing to your Word document or write an APA style piece, double spacing is a useful feature. You can quickly double space your documents with just a few clicks or a keyboard shortcut.

Virtually every college student eventually has to double space a document in Microsoft Word. It provides plenty of margins to make notes or suggestions in a document. It's also a great way to make it easier to read---I can't read anything on a Kindle without changing the view to double-spaced, for instance---and can be more visually appealing for certain types of writing.

If you use Google's apps,  double spacing on Google Docs  is a common task as well. Fortunately, there are several ways to use double spacing in Microsoft Word. You can set your document up ahead of time with double-spaced formatting, or apply double spacing to the document after finishing it instead.

Related: How to Double-Space on Google Docs

If you don't have anything written yet, you can  use a cool trick  from the 2007 version of Microsoft Word (that still exists in the current version of the software) to create some random text to edit. Simply open up a new document, click anywhere in the field, and type

to create some fancy Lorem Ipsum text . Do this as many times as you like to create additional paragraphs.

Type "=lorem ()" into a blank Word document to generate random text

Once you've generated your text or finished writing your document, it's time to set your line spacing.

Related: Undocumented Microsoft Word Feature: Insert Lorem Ipsum Text

If you want to configure your document to automatically double space as you write, there are two ways to do it.

The first method uses the "Line Spacing" icon under the "Home" tab. In the "Home" tab, navigate to the "Line Spacing" icon.

Select "2.0" from the drop-down menu. Your text will now be double spaced. You can do this to quickly double spacing at any point in the writing process, but it works best for setting up the document.

You can accomplish the same goal using the Design tab. Start by clicking the "Design" tab in the ribbon.

Navigate to the "Design" tab located in the ribbon

In the "Design" tab, navigate over to the "Paragraph Spacing" option. Select it to bring up a menu.

In the "Design" tab, navigate over to the "Paragraph Spacing" option.

In the drop-down menu, select "Double :"

Within the drop down menu, select the "Double" option

And that's it! Your document will now automatically set each line to double spaced as you write:

Your document is now double spaced. Enjoy!

Another easy way to double space your documents is to use our old friend, the please note this method works as both a way to configure the document before writing and to double space while writing.

To double space with a keyboard shortcut, first highlight your desired text, or select everything using the Ctrl+A command.

Select the text you want to double-space with the cursor or select the entire document using "Ctrl + A"

With the desired text selected, use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+2 to quickly apply double space formatting to your text.

A third method for double spacing your text is to edit the paragraph settings of specific passages. First, highlight the text you want or use Ctrl+A to select all:

Right-click your mouse to bring up a menu and select "Paragraph: "

In the "Paragraph" menu, select the drop-down menu located beneath "Line Spacing:"

Select "Double" and click "OK :"

Using these methods to quickly double space text in Microsoft Word will help you get past those formatting roadblocks with ease. Happy writing!

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This article explains how to double space lines, paragraphs, and the entire document in Microsoft Word. There are four ways to double space lines in Microsoft Word. You can use any of these options to modify a few lines or the entire document in Word.

Double Space Lines From the Home Tab

This is the quickest way to double-space your document. You can use this when you want to add double spaces for only part of the document. Select the paragraphs you want to change and follow the steps below.

  • Open Microsoft Word.
  • Go to the Home > Paragraph group > Select the Line and Paragraph Spacing icon.
  • To double space lines, choose 2.0 from the dropdown.
  • For more spacing options, select Line Spacing Options in the list.

Double space from Home tab in Word

Double Space Between Paragraphs From the Design Tab

Modify the vertical space between paragraphs in your document by setting the spacing before or after each paragraph. Do note that this applies spacing throughout your entire document and also affects line spacing. It gives you less scope to control line spacing than the other methods here.

  • Go to Design > Paragraph Spacing and choose Double .

Paragraph Spacing in Word

Double Space Lines From the Page Layout Tab

Use this option to set up double spaced lines before you start adding content to your document. The settings here allow you to finetune your text with other options.

  • Go to the Page Layout tab.
  • Go to the Paragraph group. Click the tiny down arrow in the bottom right corner to bring up the Paragraph settings dialog.
  • Stay on the Indents and Spacing tab.
  • Click the down arrow next to the Line spacing box.
  • Select Double and click the OK button to exit the dialog box.

Selecting double space between lines from the layout tab

Double Space Lines With Styles

Do you write double spaced essays? You can save this as a special style in Word for only essays or modify an existing style.

  • Go to the Home > Styles group . Right-click Normal .
  • Select Modify from the drop-down menu.
  • Under Formatting , click the Double Space button.

Modifying a style with double line spacing in Word

What Does Double Spaced Lines Mean?

Line spacing is nothing but the height of the space between each row of text. A double space means sentences will have a blank line equal to the full height of two lines of text between each line. By default, most word processors have single spacing enabled (or slightly more than single spacing), which is space that’s just one line high. Word has a default line spacing of 1.08 .

Line spacing is an important style consideration and just one of the ways to format your text for better legibility.

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How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay: Full Guide with Examples

Double spacing

MS word double spacing

Double spacing is an editing method that refers to the space between the lines of your essay. The tutor will ask the student to double-space to add the comments and editing marks. 

Double spacing happens to be the norm in essay writing. The student can change the spacing depending on the word processing programs. They could be Microsoft Word or Mac’s Pages word-processing programs. 

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What is a double spaced essay.

A double-spaced essay is an essay where the author formatted the space between the lines and the paragraphs using double spacing selection. Ideally, a double-spaced essay contains between 275 and 300 words per page depending on the font. The format is common to students and tutors as they use the space to make corrections. 

how to double space essay docs

A double-spaced essay can carry 275 words per page.

It all depends on the page margins where you are placing your text.

Suppose your page is of standard size, then the words will increase naturally.

When you are using an A4-sized page, the same essay may contain fewer words. 

Notably, the author can write as many words as he or she desires. The only limit could be your ability. The shortest essay could range between 500 and 1000 words. However, any essayist could write thousands of words to expound on the provided topic. 

The standard font for a double-spaced essay should be 12. Such empowers the writer to create at least 200 words for each page. When you are writing using this 12-point font, it makes the paragraphs to be understandable. 

The college can penalize the student if he fails to stick to the instructions. As such, it is vital to work with 12 points when you are writing an essay.

When you are writing the essay, you can use any font type unless indicated in the instructions. If unsure, then you can select the Home tab as you click on the correct font icon. 

Why Double Space? 

We do double spacing to meet the requirements of the checker. Again double spacing is necessary to allow the teacher to comment on the feedback while evaluating the essay.

The essay should meet the desires of the reader and not the writer. You can read more about writing good essays in the guide about the contents and the structure.

Difference between Single and Double Spaced Essays

The double-spaced document involves creating additional space between the paragraphs. Such a format will feature two spaces where the writer will have to press the Enter button twice. The added space allows the teacher to make changes and other remarks. 

A single-spaced paper is where there is little white space between the paragraphs. For this case, the tutor can also give instructions to students to use that format when writing a particular essay. The author only presses the Enter button once. 

How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay

Whether writing a narrative report or an essay for your school, you should select a line for spacing your work. The double spacing design becomes great as it makes it easier for the author to get the flow of the text. 

One can double-space the work by making the correct parameters for the selected text or the entire document. Several word processing documents exist to help you double-space your work, as indicated in the following examples. 

Double-Spacing in MS Word 

Begin by opening the document that you are working with. It could be either a blank document or some needs text in it. 

MS Word Double spacing

  • You can now create a default document to enable the whole document to stay double-spaced by following the simple procedure as
  • Locate the toolbar and select the styles. 
  • Right-click on the Normal on the Home tab
  • Click on modify on the pop-up menu.
  • Select the Formatting prompt and choose the Double-spaced button. 
  • Choose OK to activate the Double spacing design. 
  • Create a space within your document where you desire to double space.
  • Highlight the text you desire to double-space. 
  • Click on Paragraph spacing and Line.
  • Choose option 2.0 to double-space the highlighted space. 

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How to Spice up Double-Spacing your essay

One can make the essay remain engaging and interesting by double spacing it. Some of the things that could make it appealing are as follows:

a) Using Short Sentences

The purpose of essay writing is to impress the reader. As the research study indicates, you should use short sentences to make your essay more readable. The reason behind short sentences is that they are easy to understand. 

It could be tempting if you settled on using a large and complex vocabulary in your essay construction. In practice, complex sentences make it hard for the reader to enjoy the flow.

The secret is writing short and meaningful sentences and coming up with some charming lines. This is one of the recommended ways to become a better essay writer because you present your points in precise sentences.

b) Use Ordinary Words 

The reader’s nature is that they appreciate small and ordinary words. Another thing is that the readers do not like to be exposed as having a vocabulary problem. You can make it more appealing by using simple common words. 

The reader will be interested in the article if it carries common words that they understand without any struggle. Such an engaging document will bring desirable outcomes. 

c) Structure Your Essay Properly

A well-structured essay should arouse the interest of the reader. Precisely, a well-structured essay is ever reader-friendly. The author should make the content to be in the right structure. Follow simple steps to ensure that your essay remains in the proper structure. 

Essay structure

For example, you should begin with the introduction but other content in the body and make your conclusion.

Such carries a standard format of organizing your work in an engaging manner. 

Suppose your essay is talking about what history is all about, then you should write what comes up first.

End with what came last to ensure you are achieving proper structure. 

d) Be Factual When Substantiating Your Claims 

The most common mistake the essayists make is writing what they only believe. The correct format is to substantiate those arguments with facts.

Never leave out empirical evidence because you do not believe in it. Such could make it easy to be undesirable. Also, avoid saturating the points with facts that appear too odd.

The writer should also be keen never to jump to conclusions.  Let the author present the point backed by utmost research and weight.

The essay should address what the reader should find interesting. For that matter, make strong arguments for increasing your authority as a writer. 

e) Keep Your Essay Relevant 

Suppose your essay lacks relevancy, then it may fail to score better marks. An irrelevant essay means that it lacks sense in the common application. You can increase its relevancy by writing hot topics. 

When you complete your essay, ensure you proofread it to fine-tune it for any deviations and errors. Become your first judge. Such tactics make you improve your writing as you move on.

You can retain your authority over the topic by sticking with the right facts. At that point, you will make any reader get glued to your piece. 

f) Choose Hot Topics

The purpose of writing an essay is to engage the reader. The essay could fail to be interesting if you are writing on a boring old topic. The challenge lies in selecting the hot topic.

The writer should be careful in selecting the right topic. It calls for doing enough research to come up with the right topic of study. When unsure, then you can seek guidance from your faculty to know the correct topic to research and craft the essay about. 

Benefits of Double-Spacing in Academic Writing

1. easy to read.

First, leaving extra space between lines improves readability and makes the content easier to absorb and follow. Additionally, double spacing allows for comments and suggestions from professors or fellow students within the text.

Additionally, it enhances the essay’s general appearance, making it more polished and pleasing. Also, double spacing makes it easier to insert adjustments or amendments, facilitating effective editing and proofreading procedures.

2. It Makes an Essay Longer

Double spacing might sometimes give the impression that an essay is longer. The content is dispersed and gets more words by widening the line space. When an assignment has definite duration requirements, this may be useful.

It is vital to remember that lengthening an essay unnecessarily without adding relevant material could hurt the writer’s overall quality and consistency.

3. One can read while underlining

Another advantage of double spacing in essays is that it makes it simple for readers to underline or highlight key passages.

Since there is more area between lines, readers can mark or comment on particular portions, making it simpler to interact with the text and grasp its main ideas.

Also, because the underlined passages act as visual indicators for essential content, this can be very helpful for studying, revisiting, or referring to the essay in the future.

4. Offers space for personal notes

The wider line spacing allows students to make notes or add additional thoughts to their essays in the margins or between the lines.

This provides a handy way to write notes, draw connections, or provide additional context for specific textual passages.

These private notes can improve the overall learning and engagement with the essay by acting as helpful references for discussions, edits, or subsequent study sessions.

5. Easy to Spot mistakes

The increased spacing between lines allows for clearer visibility of individual words, sentences, and punctuation marks. This enhanced readability helps identify typos, grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies.

With white space, the eyes can navigate the text more comfortably, enabling a more careful and thorough review.

As a result, double spacing facilitates the proofreading and editing process, leading to a higher chance of catching and correcting mistakes before the final submission.

6. The paper looks professional

In essays, double spacing gives them a more polished appearance. The wider line spacing makes the document’s layout neater and more streamlined.

Also, this formatting decision complies with accepted academic standards and improves the essay’s overall presentation, giving it a polished and expert appearance.

7. Conforms with most referencing styles

Many style guides, such as APA, MLA, and Chicago, recommend double spacing as a standard requirement.

When you adhere to this spacing format, your essay aligns with the guidelines and expectations of these referencing styles, ensuring consistency and conformity in your writing.

8. Promotes clarity of text

In essays, double spacing encourages text clarity. The legibility is improved, and word crowding is prevented by leaving more space between lines.

The reader’s capacity to discern between individual words and sentences is improved by the greater spacing, which lowers the possibility of misunderstanding or misinterpretation.

Effective communication relies heavily on clarity, and double spacing makes the substance of the essay easier to understand.

Watch this video to learn more about this.

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Josh Jasen or JJ as we fondly call him, is a senior academic editor at Grade Bees in charge of the writing department. When not managing complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In his spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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How to Double Space in Word: A Step-by-Step Guide

Doubling space in Word is a handy trick to make your documents look more professional and easier to read. In less than a minute, you can change your document from single to double spaced, and in this article, I’ll show you exactly how to do it.

Step by Step Tutorial on How to Double Space in Word

Before we jump into the steps, let’s quickly talk about what double spacing will do for your document. Double spacing increases the space between lines of text, which can make your document more readable and give it a more polished look. Now, let’s get started.

Step 1: Open Your Document in Word

Open the Word document you want to double space.

Opening your Word document is as simple as clicking on the file you want to work on. Once it’s open, you’ll see your text as it currently is, most likely single-spaced.

Step 2: Select the Text You Want to Double Space

Highlight the text you want to change to double spacing.

To select the text, click and drag your mouse over the words you want to double space. If you want to double space the whole document, you can press ‘Ctrl+A’ on your keyboard to select everything at once.

Step 3: Click on the ‘Line and Paragraph Spacing’ Icon

Find and click on the ‘Line and Paragraph Spacing’ icon in the toolbar.

The ‘Line and Paragraph Spacing’ icon looks like a few lines with arrows pointing up and down. It’s usually found in the ‘Home’ tab on the toolbar at the top of your Word document.

Step 4: Choose ‘2.0’

Select ‘2.0’ from the dropdown menu to apply double spacing to your text.

When you click on the ‘2.0’ option, Word will automatically adjust the spacing between the lines of the text you’ve selected.

After completing these steps, your text will now be double spaced. It will look less cluttered and more organized, which is especially important if you’re writing something that others will read, like an essay or a report.

Tips for Double Spacing in Word

  • If you’re using a version of Word that doesn’t have the ‘Line and Paragraph Spacing’ icon, you can also double space your text by going to the ‘Layout’ tab and clicking on ‘Paragraph settings.’
  • Remember that double spacing might increase the number of pages in your document, so keep that in mind if you’re working with a page limit.
  • If you’re following a specific style guide, like APA or MLA, make sure double spacing is in line with those requirements.
  • Double spacing can also make it easier for you to read and edit your work, so consider using it during your drafting process.
  • If you’re working with a shared document, make sure to communicate with your collaborators before changing the spacing, as it will affect the entire document’s formatting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i double space part of a document but not the whole thing.

Yes, you can double space only part of a document by selecting the text you want to change and following the steps above.

Will double spacing affect the spacing between my paragraphs?

Double spacing will increase the space between lines within a paragraph, but it won’t automatically change the space between separate paragraphs. You can adjust this in the ‘Paragraph settings.’

Can I use a shortcut to double space my text?

While there isn’t a one-button shortcut, you can use ‘Ctrl+2’ in some versions of Word after you’ve selected your text to apply double spacing.

What should I do if double spacing isn’t working?

Make sure you’ve correctly selected the text you want to double space, and check that you don’t have any conflicting formatting settings applied. If issues persist, consult Word’s help resources or restart the application.

Is double spacing necessary?

Double spacing isn’t always necessary, but it can be a requirement for academic papers, manuscripts, and other formal documents. It’s also a personal preference for readability.

  • Open your Word document.
  • Select the text to double space.
  • Click on the ‘Line and Paragraph Spacing’ icon.
  • Choose ‘2.0.’

There you have it, a simple guide on how to double space in Word. It’s a quick and easy process that can make a huge difference in the readability and overall look of your document. Whether you’re writing an essay, preparing a report, or drafting a manuscript, double spacing can help your work stand out and be taken more seriously. Remember, it’s not just about how you say it, but also how you present it. With your new double spacing skills, you’re one step closer to creating documents that not only convey your message but also visually appeal to your readers. If you ever get stuck or need a refresher, come back to this article. Now, go forth and double space to your heart’s content!

Matthew Burleigh Solve Your Tech

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

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  1. How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay: Full Guide with Examples

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  2. How To Double Space Google Docs

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  3. How to Double Space in Google Docs

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  4. How to double space in Google Docs

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  5. How to Double Space Your Paper

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  6. How to Double Space in Google Docs

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  2. Keyboard Settings Double Space Full Stop #shorts #uniquetechtips

  3. How to double space in google docs app

  4. Formatting Your MLA Essay (Docs)

  5. How To Double Space In Word

  6. How to add double space in Google docs

COMMENTS

  1. How to Double-Space on Google Docs

    To apply double-spacing to the text in your current Google Docs document, first, select the text. You can do this by clicking and dragging your cursor over the text. To quickly select all text, use the "Ctrl+A" ("Command+A" on Mac) keyboard shortcut. The text is highlighted blue when selected. Next, click the "Line Spacing" icon (an arrow and ...

  2. How to Double Space in Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Step 4: Choose Double. From the Line spacing options, select Double. Double spacing will immediately apply to your entire document unless you have specific text highlighted, in which case, it will only apply to that selection. After completing these steps, your Google Doc will have double the space between each line of text.

  3. How to Double Space on Google Docs

    What to Know. In a browser: Go to Format -> Line & Paragraph Spacing -> Double. From the toolbar: Highlight the text, then click the Line Spacing icon and click Double. In Google Docs, the default is 1.15 spaces between lines. If you need additional space, this article explains how to double space instead.

  4. How to Double Space in Google Docs

    Learn how to double space in Google Docs for essays and papers. Discover the easiest ways to customize line spacing in Google Docs for any situation.📋 Tabl...

  5. How to double-space in Google Docs

    Double-space in Google Docs on the web. Head to Google Docs on the web, sign in, and open your document or create a new one. Step 1: If you already have text on the page, select all relevant text ...

  6. How To Double Space In Google Docs

    How To Double Space In Google DocsLearn how to double space in Google Docs with our straightforward tutorial. This video will guide you through the steps to ...

  7. How To Double-Space an Essay in Google Docs

    This video demonstrates how to apply double-spacing to your essay or other writing in a Google doc.

  8. How to Double Space in Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Double spacing in Google Docs is a handy tool for anyone looking to create a document that is easy on the eyes and professional. Whether you're drafting an essay, writing a report, or preparing a manuscript, mastering this simple formatting technique can make all the difference. With the steps provided, you now have the know-how to adjust the ...

  9. How to Double Space in Google Docs

    How to double space in the Google Docs app. 1. In the Google Docs app, open or create the file you want to edit. 2. While in editing mode, tap the capital A icon at the top of the screen. Tap the ...

  10. How to Double Space Your Text on Google Docs

    Drag your cursor and highlight the lines that you want to double space. You can select the entire document or any part of the document. Use Ctrl + A (Windows) or Command + A (macOS) to select the entire document. Select the icon for line spacing in the toolbar. Choose the Double Space option in the dropdown.

  11. 8 Ways to Double Space in Google Docs on App and Website

    Open the Google Docs app and tap on the document where you wish to use double space. Now tap on the Edit icon in the bottom right corner of your screen. Next, tap on the Format icon in the top right corner and then tap on Paragraph at the top. Tap on the ^ arrow beside Line spacing and increase the value to 2.

  12. How to double space in Google Docs for iPad, iPhone, computer, Android

    How to double space on Google Docs

  13. How to Double Space in Google Docs

    In Google Docs, you can use the Formatting Options menu to double-space your text. To double-space your text in Google Docs: Open your Google Docs document. Select any existing text manually using ...

  14. How to double space in Google Docs

    When in Google Docs, select the lines you want to change, or select all by pressing Ctrl + A on Windows or Command + A on Mac. Step 2. When your text is selected, click Format > Line & paragraph ...

  15. How To Double Space in Google Docs (With Three Strategies)

    How To Double Space in Google Docs (With Three ...

  16. 3 Ways to Double Space

    Download Article. 1. Use the Line Spacing or Leading feature in Wordperfect to create a double space between lines in the entire document or just a section. 2. Click on Format. You will see a menu that offers Line. Click on Line and then on Line Spacing. 3. Type 2.0 in the Spacing box that pops up.

  17. Google Docs: How to Double Space

    Free Download - How To Double Space Quick Reference Guide:https://www.beinclassy.com/product-page/how-to-double-space-in-microsoft-word-google-docs-apple-pag...

  18. How to Double Space In Microsoft Word

    The first method uses the "Line Spacing" icon under the "Home" tab. In the "Home" tab, navigate to the "Line Spacing" icon. Select "2.0" from the drop-down menu. Your text will now be double spaced. You can do this to quickly double spacing at any point in the writing process, but it works best for setting up the document.

  19. How to Double Space a Word Document

    Open Microsoft Word. Go to the Page Layout tab. Go to the Paragraph group. Click the tiny down arrow in the bottom right corner to bring up the Paragraph settings dialog. Stay on the Indents and Spacing tab. Click the down arrow next to the Line spacing box. Select Double and click the OK button to exit the dialog box.

  20. Double Spaced Essay: Guide, Examples, Steps, Tips, and Tricks

    A double-spaced paper or document, which is the most common, entails creating 2.0 spaces between lines in a paragraph without spaces between paragraphs. Double-spacing is a norm of most college assignments; even dissertations and theses are mostly double-spaced. A 1.5 spaced essay or document means that the lines or sentences in a paragraph are ...

  21. How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay: Full Guide with Examples

    Locate the toolbar and select the styles. Right-click on the Normal on the Home tab. Click on modify on the pop-up menu. Select the Formatting prompt and choose the Double-spaced button. Choose OK to activate the Double spacing design. Create a space within your document where you desire to double space.

  22. How to double space your essay in Google Docs

    About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright ...

  23. How to Double Space in Word: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Step 2: Select the Text You Want to Double Space. Highlight the text you want to change to double spacing. To select the text, click and drag your mouse over the words you want to double space. If you want to double space the whole document, you can press 'Ctrl+A' on your keyboard to select everything at once.