Double spacing in Google Docs is a feature that allows you to increase the space between lines of text, making your document easier to read and more visually appealing. It’s a simple process that can be completed in just a few clicks.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Double Space in Google Docs
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand that double spacing will make your document look more professional and easier on the eyes, especially if it’s a lengthy piece of writing. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Open your Google Docs document
Open the document you want to double space.
Once you have your document open, you’ll be ready to adjust the spacing.
Step 2: Highlight the text you want to double space
Click and drag your cursor over the text you want to format.
If you want to double space the entire document, you can use the shortcut Ctrl+A or Cmd+A to select all the text.
Step 3: Click on the ‘Line spacing’ icon
Look for the ‘Line spacing’ icon in the toolbar and click on it.
The ‘Line spacing’ icon looks like an up and down arrow with lines that represent text spacing.
Step 4: Select ‘Double’ from the dropdown menu
In the dropdown menu that appears, click on ‘Double’.
Once you select ‘Double’, your highlighted text will instantly become double spaced.
After you’ve completed these steps, your selected text will be double spaced. This means there will be twice as much space between lines than there was before, which can make your document easier to read and edit.
Tips for Double Spacing in Google Docs
- Remember that double spacing can make a document feel less cluttered.
- Use double spacing for academic papers or any formal documents.
- Double spacing can be applied to specific sections of your document, not just the entire text.
- If you’re collaborating on a document, double spacing can make it easier for others to add comments and edits.
- Double spacing is often a requirement for manuscripts submission, so it’s a good practice to learn.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I revert back to single spacing?
Just follow the same steps and instead of selecting ‘Double’, choose ‘Single’ from the menu.
If you accidentally double space the wrong section, it’s easy to revert back to single spacing.
Can I customize the amount of spacing between lines?
Yes, you can choose ‘Custom spacing’ from the ‘Line spacing’ dropdown menu and enter your desired spacing.
Custom spacing gives you more control over the appearance of your document.
Does double spacing affect the number of pages in my document?
Yes, double spacing will increase the number of pages since it expands the space between lines.
Keep page count in mind if you have a page limit for your document.
Can I double space a document on Google Docs mobile app?
Yes, similar steps apply to the mobile app, though the interface may slightly differ.
Double spacing on mobile is just as easy as on desktop.
Will double spacing change the formatting of my text?
No, double spacing only changes the space between lines, not the text itself.
Your font style, size, and other formatting will remain unaffected.
Summary
- Open your Google Docs document.
- Highlight the text you want to double space.
- Click on the ‘Line spacing’ icon.
- Select ‘Double’ from the dropdown menu.
Conclusion
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 spacing of your document with ease. Remember to use these steps to ensure your next document stands out in terms of clarity and readability. If you follow our guidance, you’ll soon be double spacing like a pro! And if you ever find yourself stuck, just come back to this article for a quick refresher. Happy writing, and may your Google Docs always be perfectly spaced!
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.