Line and Paragraph Spacing in Microsoft Word

Line and Paragraph Spacing in Microsoft Word

When you create a document in Microsoft Word, spacing plays a big role in how easy it is to read. Proper spacing between lines and paragraphs makes your document look clean, professional, and well-organized. In this guide, we will learn simple ways to adjust line and paragraph spacing in Word.

What is Line Spacing?

Line spacing is the amount of space between two lines of text in a paragraph. By default, Word uses 1.08 spacing, which is slightly more than single spacing. You can change this to single, 1.5, double, or even set a custom value.

How to Change Line Spacing

Select the text you want to adjust.
Go to the Home tab.
In the Paragraph group, click the Line and Paragraph Spacing icon (it looks like lines with up and down arrows).
Choose the spacing you prefer, such as Single, 1.5, or Double.

More Line Spacing Options

If you need more control, click Line Spacing Options from the dropdown menu. In the Paragraph dialog box, you can set:

Exactly: Fix spacing in points, like 15pt for a 12pt font.
At Least: Ensures minimum spacing but expands if needed.
Multiple: Custom values like 1.2 for more space or 0.9 for less.

What is Paragraph Spacing?

Paragraph spacing is the space before and after a paragraph. It helps separate sections, making documents easier to read.

How to Change Paragraph Spacing

Select the paragraph(s) you want to format.
Go to the Home tab.
Click the Line and Paragraph Spacing button.
Choose Add Space Before Paragraph or Remove Space After Paragraph.
For more control, select Line Spacing Options and adjust “Before” or “After.”

Saving Your Settings

If you want the same spacing for all new documents:

Open Line Spacing Options.
Set your preferred spacing.
Click Set as Default and apply it to all new documents.

Tip: Use more spacing for assignments and reports to improve readability. Use tighter spacing when you need to fit more text on a page.

5 FAQs of Line and Paragraph Spacing in Word

What is the default line spacing in Word?

The default line spacing in Microsoft Word is 1.08 lines.

How do I set double spacing?

Select your text, go to the Home tab, click Line and Paragraph Spacing, and choose "Double."

Can I adjust spacing for selected text only?

Yes. Highlight the text, then apply the spacing you want. It will affect only that part.

What is paragraph spacing used for?

It controls space before and after paragraphs, making sections clear and easy to read.<

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Line and Paragraph Spacing in Microsoft Word