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How to double space in Word

3 min read

Summary

Double spacing in Word improves document readability and meets many formatting requirements. It also creates a clean layout ideal for editing, reviewing, and formal presentation.

To begin, open your Word document. Then, highlight the text you want to format. If you plan to double space the entire document, press Ctrl + A to select all text. Next, go to the Home tab on the ribbon. In the Paragraph group, click the small arrow in the bottom-right corner to open the full paragraph settings.

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Now, find the Line Spacing dropdown under the Spacing section. Click it and choose Double from the list. After you make this change, click OK, and Word will apply double spacing to the selected content.

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Alternatively, you can use a quicker method. While your text is selected, press Ctrl + 2 on your keyboard. This shortcut instantly formats the text with double line spacing without opening menus.

Additionally, if you’re setting up a document that requires double spacing from the start—such as an essay—you can adjust the default spacing before you begin typing. Go to the Design tab, click on Paragraph Spacing, and choose Double to make it the standard for the document.

Furthermore, you can customize spacing further by adjusting the spacing before or after paragraphs in the same paragraph settings window. This lets you fine-tune the appearance of your document beyond just line spacing.

In summary, Word offers multiple ways to apply double spacing, helping you meet formatting guidelines or improve document readability. With just a few clicks or keystrokes, your text will be clean, spaced out, and ready for review or submission.

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