Step by Step Guide: How to double space in Google docs (Issues and Fixes)

Master double spacing in Google Docs with simple, step-by-step instructions. Enhance readability and create professional-looking documents effortlessly!

Hen Nagel
4 Min Read

Google Docs is a versatile and user-friendly word processing tool used by millions worldwide. Whether you’re formatting an academic paper, creating a professional document, or just giving your text some breathing room, knowing how to double space in Google Docs is essential.

This guide will walk you through the process, step by step.

What Is Double Spacing?

Double spacing refers to the amount of space between lines of text in a document. When you double space, there’s a blank line between each line of text.

This formatting style is often required for academic papers, manuscripts, or when more readability is needed in a document.

Why Use Double Spacing?

Double spacing enhances readability by giving text more room to breathe. It’s commonly used in:

  • Academic writing (APA, MLA, and Chicago styles often require it).
  • Professional documents, to allow room for editing or comments.
  • Print materials, where additional spacing improves legibility.

How to Double Space in Google Docs

Follow these simple steps to apply double spacing to your text in Google Docs:

  • Open Your Document
    Launch Google Docs and open the document where you want to apply double spacing. You can create a new document if needed.
  • Highlight the Text
    If you want to apply double spacing to the entire document, press Ctrl + A (Windows) or Command + A (Mac) to select all the text. For specific sections, click and drag your cursor to highlight the desired text.
  • Access Line Spacing Options
    Click on the Format menu in the toolbar at the top of the screen.
    From the dropdown menu, hover over Line & Paragraph Spacing and select the Double option from the menu. (See printscreen bellow)

    Your text will instantly update to reflect the change
  • Check Your Formatting
    Review your document to ensure the spacing looks correct. If adjustments are needed, you can repeat the process.

Using the Toolbar Shortcut Option

An even quicker way to double space in Google Docs is by using the toolbar shortcut:

  1. Highlight the text or select all using Ctrl + A or Command + A.
  2. Click the Line Spacing icon in the toolbar (it looks like three horizontal lines with up and down arrows).
  3. Select Double from the dropdown menu.

Setting Double Space as Default

If you frequently use double spacing, you can set it as the default for all new documents:

  1. Go to Format > Paragraph styles > Normal text > Update ‘Normal text’ to match.
  2. Next, click Format > Paragraph styles > Options > Save as my default styles.

This will ensure all future documents start with double spacing.

1. Step

Set-double-spacing-in-google-docs-as-default

2. Step


Bonus Tips

Keyboard shortcuts for double spacing

Speed up your workflow with keyboard shortcuts! On your computer, use Ctrl + 2 (Windows) or Cmd + 2 (Mac) to instantly apply double spacing to selected text.

Common Issues and Fixes

  • Text Not Changing: Ensure the correct text is selected before applying the spacing.
  • Unwanted Spacing: Check for extra spaces or paragraph breaks that may disrupt formatting.
  • Different Styles: If combining text from multiple sources, clear formatting by selecting the text and choosing Format > Clear formatting before applying double spacing.

Double spacing in Google Docs is a simple yet powerful feature that enhances the readability and professionalism of your documents.

Master Double Spacing in Google Docs: Quick and Easy Video Tutorial!

Whether for academic, professional, or personal use, mastering this formatting tool is a must for effective document creation.

Get More Guide on Google Docs

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