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

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. 

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. 

• 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. 

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.

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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Double spacing refers to the amount of space that shows between the individual lines of your paper. When a paper is single-spaced, there is very little white space between the typed lines, which means there is no room for marks or comments. This is precisely why teachers ask you to double space. The white space between the lines leaves room for  editing marks  and comments.

Double spacing is the norm for essay assignments, so if you are in doubt about expectations, you should format your paper with double spacing. Only use a single space if the teacher asks explicitly for it. 

Don't worry if you've already typed your paper and you now realize that your spacing is wrong. You can change spacing and other types of formatting easily and at any time in the writing process. But the way to go about these changes will differ, depending on the word processing program you're using.

Microsoft Word

If you are working in Microsoft Word 2010, you should follow these steps to set up double-spacing.

• Select (highlight) text if you have already typed some lines. If not, go to the next step.
• Click on the Page Layout tab.
• Go to the Paragraph section. You will see a small arrow in the bottom left corner.
• Click on the arrow to bring up a new window.
• Select the Indents and Spacing tab (it is probably already open).
• Find the Line spacing menu and select double from the list. Then select OK .

Other versions of Microsoft Word will use a similar process and the same wording.

Pages (Mac)

 If you're using the Pages word processor on a mac, you can double-space your paper following these instructions: 

• First highlight text, if you have already typed some lines
• Click on  Inspector , which is a blue button on the top right of your window
• When a new window opens, select the  Text  tab which is a large "T"
• Find the section labeled  Spacing  and type  2  into the box to the right of the slide bar
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How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay and Score an A for it

Many guidelines for formatting essays, as presented in rubrics, recommend double-spacing as one of the proper formats for standard comprehensive essays . For instance, when you receive the assignment instructions, essay prompts, or other academic homework assignment instructions, the Spacing of the work is usually specified.

The common spacing specifications include a 1.5 spaced essay, single-spaced essay, and a double-spaced or 2.0 spaced essay. In most cases, instructors will insist that your essay must be typed and double-spaced on standard-sized 8.5" by 11" paper, with margins of 1" on all sides.

In this detailed guide, we focus on the definition of a double-spaced essay, how to double-space an essay on MS Word or Mac Pages, and how to spice up that essay so that you score higher marks.

What is a double-spaced essay?

Here is the meaning of a double-spaced essay : A double-spaced essay is a standard essay written on a standard-sized (8.5" x 11") paper with a one-inch margin around the paper formatted with double spaces between the lines that make a paragraph with no extra spacing between paragraphs.  

In terms of word count, a double-spaced essay contains either 275 or 300 words in total per page, depending on the font used. Formatting a paper in double-spacing makes it easier for the tutor to read through the essay, make corrections within the left spaces, and follow through with ideas in your essay.

The number of words in a double-spacing essay also depends on the page margins you have set for your text. For instance, if you use A-4 sized page, an essay will have fewer words, the same as an A3 page. However, a standard-sized age with one-inch margins all around should have 275 words as a standard.

With short essays being between 250 words and 1000 words, with the most common in college being a 500-word essay, you can write as many words as you wish depending on the scope of the question, essay prompt, and the topic.

In most instances, students are advised to use font 12 points of 11 depending on the font type you are using. Failure to format your essay in the required Spacing might lead to penalties ranging from deduction of grades to poor grades.

As you set out to write or edit your essay, ensure that you choose a font that your professor advises. But this should only be the last thing you do as you polish your essay. For instance, some students find it comfortable writing with a given font, say Arial font 13, and then converting to Times New Roman font 12 when editing.

What is the significance of Double Spacing in essays and assignments?

You are probably wondering why we double-space essays or why it is the preferred standard for essays you write in high school and college. Below are some of the top three reasons why teachers want essays to be double-spaced.

• Double-spacing makes it easier to read through the document quickly as the lines do not blur together.
• Double-spaced essays are also reader-friendly. A reader can easily read and trace the points in your essay without needing extra aids or larger fonts.
• Double-spaced essays or assignments are also preferred because they leave whitespaces where the instructors can write comments on the paper.
• Another reason is that double-spaced essays give you (the essayist) enough room to communicate to your readers. The Spacing enhances the spatial mode of the essay or paper, making it easier to spot main points, read without getting lost or straying into other lines, and use one's fingers.

Double-Spacing vs. Other tyles of Spacing for Essays

When writing an essay, report, dissertation, annotated bibliography, or research paper for school, you should be aware of the type of Spacing required. There are three types of Spacing for school assignments: single, 1.5, and double Spacing.

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 spaced 1.5 mm from one another without spaces between paragraphs.

Finally, a single-spaced paper has little white spaces between the typed lines in the paragraphs. The lines within the paragraph are spaced 1.0 from one another. This means that there is little room for comments, remarks, or feedback from the professor. You should only use single and 1.5 spacing if your instructor advises so.

If you have typed your paper and realize that you have the wrong spacing, do not worry. You can do the Spacing of an essay or document either on a word document or on a Mac, as we shall explain shortly. The good news is that you can do this at any point in your writing process. The process will differ depending on the program you are using. Let's explore widely.

If you are wondering what a double-spaced essay looks like, have a look below.

Here is how single Spacing should look like in an essay:

Pages vs. Spacing Chart

To try to bring things to their perspective, here is a table comparing word count to Spacing. It can help you plan your essays.

You can simply conclude from the table abov e that a single-spaced page has the exact word count as twice a double-spaced paper.

How to set Double-Spacing on your Computer

Some people prefer to use other font styles and formats when writing, then edit the entire document to the required format and Spacing later, which is okay. Others like to keep everything organized from the beginning, which means setting double-spacing from the onset. Whether on Mac Page's word processor or MS word processor, here are some steps to take.

Pages on a Mac

If you are using a Page's word processor on a mac, you can follow these steps to double-space your paper:

• Highlight the text that you wish to double-space
• Click on Inspector, a blue button on the top right of your window
• In the new window, select the Text tab or the "T."
• Find the section labeled Spacing and type 2 into the box to the right of the slide bar.

On Microsoft Word Processor

If you are typing your assignment on a word document, follow the following steps to double-space it:

1. Select the text that you wish to change its Spacing

2. Under the Home tab , go to the Paragraph Click on the small arrow in the bottom left corner, as shown below.

3. A new window will pop up with various settings, including general, indentation, and Spacing, as shown in the figure below.

4. Click on the line spacing drop-down arrow

5. Select " Double " from the list

6. Check the " Don't add space between paragraphs of the same style ."

7. Press OK to execute the changes and save

The process is more or less the same for all Microsoft word processing versions. 

You can also adjust the line-spacing from the toolbar on your Microsoft word processor . This is probably the best way if you are one of those that want a page with double-spacing from the onset.

1. Under the Paragraph section of the Home Tab , locate the line-spacing button .

2. Click on the button to expand it as shown below.

3. Choose 2 . 0 for double-spacing , 1.5 for 1.5 line-spacing, and 1.0 for single spacing.

4. Click on OK to make the paper double-spaced.

How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay: 9 Steps to Take

Suppose you are assigned to write a double-spacing essay and you are wondering how to proceed, here is a little cheat sheet to keep you going. We asked our top essay writers and here were their exact recommendations; they can help you craft a double-spaced essay or assignment.

1. Read the essay prompt

The first thing you should always do when assigned to write a double-spaced essay is to thoroughly read the assignment prompt. It helps you unpack the question, brainstorm on a good topic, and pick the best topic for your essay. additionally, you also get to understand the Spacing, font type and size, and length/wordcount of your essay. It is an integral step in writing an essay.

2. Select a good essay topic

After reading the instructions, you need to rewrite the question on your own terms, conduct some research, evaluate the viable topics, then choose a hot topic for your essay. depending on your area of study, select a topic that is neither too narrow nor too broad. Go with a topic that is easy to find resources and one that you have genuine interest in writing a paper. If you are left with the option of selecting a topic on your own, select a topic that is relevant to the subject of study.

3. Use appropriate evidence

We cannot insist less how much it is important to cite all the sources that you use in an essay. First, failure to cite sources used in an essay could amount to plagiarism, which is a punishable offense in higher education and even professional realms. Therefore, you need to manage your in-text citations and reference list to ensure that your paper has some scholarly rigor. Citing facts paraphrased, quoted, or summarized from a source bolsters the arguments in the paragraphs of your essay. It brings in a string of a scholarly streak that makes the paper flow, make sense, and support your thesis statement.

4. Present your facts well

When planning for your essay or writing an essay outline/structure, you ought to have thought of the scaffolding of your essay. An essay scaffold refers to the order in which you present your arguments, themes, or texts in an essay. Have some semblance of organization in your essay. As an essayist, ensure that you substantiate your claims using proper evidence.

Instead of casually presenting an idea because you do not believe in it, use the available empirical evidence to make the essay even more desirable. It is also appropriate not to jump into unwarranted or unsupported conclusions.

If you do so, let it be on grounds of the evidence presented to support your thesis statement. Equally, your essay must always address the readers, so focus on what would interest them. From the title to the reference page, ensure that your readers are well-entertained and hooked.

5. Have a good essay structure

Apart from determining the order of argument, ensure that your essay is also well-structured. A comprehensive essay with a definite structure intrigues the readers. It also simplifies the writing process because everything falls into its rightful place.

You will have a laser-sharp focus on a structured essay than an essay you write haphazardly. Such an essay (a poorly-planned essay) will probably miss a thing or two. But when you have an essay outline , your chances of intriguing your readers increased. In short, a well-structured essay is reader-friendly.

Instead of beginning with the introduction, like anyone else, why not begin with the body paragraphs. Because you have a preliminary thesis, your body paragraphs can be developed without the introduction.

You can then finalize the writing process by tweaking the thesis into a final thesis, based on the arguments on the body paragraphs, and then writing a catchy introduction.

When you have your introduction, you can now finalize the writing process by writing an equally catchy conclusion that leaves your readers yearning for more.

As long as you maintain the standard format of a three-paragraph or a five-paragraph essay, whichever order you use to write does not matter provided the quality of the essay is met.

Choose the essay scaffold depending on the type of essay you are writing. For instance, you can use Toulmin, classic argument method, or Rogerian approach when writing an argumentative essay . similarly, you can choose to use chronology or point-by-point contrast when writing a classification or compare and contrast essay .

6. Use simple vocabulary

When writing any essay, it is not the chance to measure who knows what vocabulary. Instead, it is a chance to present facts from research to reinforce your ideas and thoughts on a given topic. Resist the temptation of using tough words to impress your teacher. Simplicity always wins when it comes to essay writing. Write in plain and simple language.

Use the ordinary words that makes it easier for your instructor to read and flow with your ideas. They never have the time to peruse a thesaurus, and even if they do, you would probably irritate their appetite leading to poor grades.

Use simple common words to communicate with the audience. Most engaging and top-grade essays are written in simple language. Students who write simple papers end up scoring better, as long as the facts are presented, flowing, and well organized.

7. Use short and long sentences

Every piece of assignment you write is meant to impress your readers. Using short sentences and long sentences blended together makes an essay readable. Short sentences are brief, easy to understand, and allow for easier navigation.

Although sometimes it is tempting to use complex sentences, they are counted as run-on or ambiguous sentences. When writing, this should not trouble you. However, when editing the paper, shorten the long sentences that have empty but complex vocabularies. It narrows down to simplicity again.

All our writers are better because they have mastered the art of balancing short and long sentences. With such a craft, you can convince even the toughest professor on earth for the best grades.

Brevity, coherence, accuracy, composition, and clarity comes from a mastery of how to use short sentences. So, try to practice often and use this approach for success in your essays.

8. Balance your paragraphs

To achieve a perfect paragraph in an essay is akin to getting an A+. It is not hard although it is something that most people struggle with.

Ensure that your topic sentences achieve cohesion and coherence. Cohesion means a good flow while coherence means achieving a sense of the whole. Your paragraphs should transition into one another.

Each paragraph should present a single idea linked to the order. Check out our guide on the PEEL paragraphing format . We also have a checklist for a good essay paragraph . A paragraph is an indispensable or irreplaceable node within a coherent sequence of logic. They are the building blocks of the essays. So, make them count.

Finally, your paragraphs need to be balanced in terms of number of words. Remember, by default the body paragraphs comprise 80% of the entire word count. This means that if you are writing a five-paragraph essay, the three body paragraphs should be spread to cover for the same.

9. Edit and format correctly

The writing process is no doubt the hardest part. Since it comes with researching, reading, and critical thinking, by the time you are done chances are that you are exhausted and probably fatigued. If you make the mistake of rushing directly to edit and format the paper, you'll probably make mistakes. It is the sole reason why it is good to plan an essay � allocate some good time for editing and polishing the essay or any assignment for that matter.

Now, when you're done with writing, take some much-deserved break. You can go for a walk, have a nap, watch your favorite show, activate your social media and plug back, or visit a friend, whatever will ease your mind.

After the rest, spend some quality time objectively reading, editing, and formatting your essay. focus on spelling, grammar, stylistic, and organization mistakes. You should also check the right Spacing, fonts, and font type. If you find the process consuming and tiresome, you can use our essay editing service. We have keen editors who can always help.

After everything is okay, check your paper for plagiarism, and submit it before the deadline.

Parting Shot!

To this end, you now understand what a double-spaced essay is, how to set double Spacing on your Computer, and how to make a double-spacing interesting enough to earn you a better grade.

Whether you are writing in MLA, Harvard, APA , or Chicago, the process remains the same. If you need tips on how to make an essay longer , check out our guide on the same. We also have various guides that can help you become a better essay writer.

Related: How to indent in an essay or paper.

Otherwise, if all you need is someone who can assist you with writing a well-researched, refined, and polished school essay, we have excellent and talented writers on the wait. Place an order through the form on our homepage and experience a perfect essay help you have never seen before.

Gradecrest is a professional writing service that provides original model papers. We offer personalized services along with research materials for assistance purposes only. All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. See our Terms of Use Page for proper details.

18 Double Spaced Essay: How to Write It and Achieve a Top Grade

Numerous essay formatting guidelines often highlight double-spacing as a preferred layout for standard essays. This comprehensive tutorial will delve into what constitutes a double-spaced essay, the steps to apply double-spacing in your document using MS Word or Mac Pages, and strategies to enhance your essay, aiming for higher grades.

What is a Double-Spaced Essay?

When tasked to write me an essay , it’s essential to consider the structural elements that define its presentation and readability. An essay set to double-spacing is typically arranged on standard 8.5″ x 11″ paper, framed by 1-inch margins, featuring double-spaced lines within each paragraph and no additional spacing between paragraphs. It typically has 275 to 300 words per page, varying with font and margins. This format facilitates easier reading, correction by tutors, and idea tracking.

Word count can be adjusted based on page size and margins, but standard settings align with 275 words per page. Essays usually range from 250 to 1000 words, with 500 words common in college. Font size 12 or 11 is recommended, and adherence to specific formatting guidelines, including font choice, is crucial to avoid grade penalties. Editing might involve switching fonts for personal comfort or per a professor’s instructions.

Why is It Necessary to Use Double Spacing in Essays?

You might be curious about the rationale behind double-spacing essays and their prevalence as the preferred format for high school and college papers. Here, we highlight the top three reasons:

• Double-spacing improves readability by preventing lines from blurring, allowing for faster document scanning.
• Double-spaced essays are also user-friendly because readers can comfortably read and follow the ideas in your essay without requiring additional assistance or larger font sizes.
• Instructors often prefer double-spaced essays because they provide spaces between the lines where they can easily write comments on the paper.

Comparison Between Double-Spacing and Other Spacing Options

School assignments generally have three types of spacing options: single, 1.5, and double spacing.

A  double-spaced paper is the most prevalent method of formatting a text or document and involves inserting a distance of 2.0 spaces between lines within a paragraph while leaving no space between paragraphs. Double-spacing is a typical requirement for college assignments, including dissertations and theses.

A 1.5-spaced essay indicates that the sentences in a paragraph are separated by a distance of 1.5 mm, with no gaps between paragraphs.

Finally, a single-spaced document contains small gaps between the lines, with a spacing of 1.0. It is recommended to use single or 1.5 spacing only if your instructor specifically instructs you to do so.

How to Use Double-Spacing on Your Computer

Some students choose to use different font styles while writing and then make adjustments to the overall document format and spacing at a later stage, which is acceptable. On the other hand, some people prefer to stay organized right from the beginning, which involves setting double spacing from the start. Whether you use a word processor like Pages or Word, here are the steps to follow.

Pages on a Mac

If you have a Mac computer and use Pages, you can use the following instructions to set your paper to double-spacing.

• Select the paragraphs you want to be double-spaced.
• To access Inspector, go to the top right corner and click the blue button.
• Once you see the new window, click on the Text button.
• Locate the Spacing part and input the number 2 in the designated box on the right side of the slide bar.

Microsoft Word Processor

If you are using a Word document to type your assignment, use the following steps to make it double-spaced:

• Select the specific text to adjust its spacing.
• In the Home tab, find the Paragraph and click on the short arrow in the lower corner.
• A separate window will appear, displaying different options, such as general, indentation, and spacing.
• In the spacing list, select Double.

The procedure is similar for all Microsoft Word versions.

You also have the option to customize the spacing between lines using the toolbar on your screen:

• In the same Paragraph area, find the spacing button.

6 Steps to Write an A-Worthy Double-Spaced Essay 

If you are given the task of writing an essay with double spacing and are unsure about how to start, here is a handy guide to assist you.

1. Study the Prompt

When assigned to write a paper, the initial step you should take is to check the prompt carefully. This will assist you in comprehending the question, generating ideas for a suitable topic, and selecting the most appropriate subject for your essay.

2. Select a Good Essay Topic

Once you have reviewed the instructions, it is necessary to rephrase the question using your own words. Conduct thorough research and assess potential topics, ultimately selecting a captivating subject matter for your essay. The chosen topic should strike a balance between being too specific or too general, and it should be easily supported by available resources.

3. Use Appropriate Evidence

It is crucial to emphasize the significance of references in an essay. Neglecting to do so could result in plagiarism, which is a serious offense in both academic and professional settings. By citing information that is paraphrased, quoted, or summarized from sources, you strengthen the arguments presented in your paragraphs.

4. Develop a Suitable Essay Structure

In addition to establishing the sequence of ideas, make sure that your essay is well-organized. A thorough essay with a clear structure captivates readers and makes the writing process more straightforward as each element falls into its proper position. Carefully construct your essay, paying attention to its structure, and you will be able to maintain a laser-like focus throughout.

5. Use Simple Vocabulary

Writing an essay is not an opportunity to show off one’s extensive vocabulary. Instead, it is an opportunity to support your ideas and thoughts on a specific topic by presenting factual research. Avoid the urge to use complex words in order to impress your teacher, as clear and straightforward language is always more effective in essay writing.

To effectively communicate with the audience, it is important to utilize straightforward and widely understood language. The most captivating and high-quality essays tend to employ a simple and accessible writing style.

6. Balance Your Paragraphs

Make sure your topic sentences are cohesive and coherent. Cohesion refers to a smooth connection between sentences, while coherence means creating a unified sense throughout. Seamless transitions between paragraphs are key to a cohesive narrative.

Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence that clearly presents the central theme, then bolster it with supporting sentences that offer evidence or illustrative examples. Employ thoughtful transitions to weave your ideas together, ensuring a natural progression of thoughts throughout your writing.

The Bottom Line

With the information provided, you have gained knowledge on the definition of a double-spaced essay, instructions on setting double spacing on your computer, and tips to make your double-spacing captivating enough to improve your academic score.

Freelance writer Nicole Hardy , a distinguished journalist in the realms of education and the arts, is celebrated for her thorough and discerning coverage of performing arts education. Her career, which extends beyond ten years, has solidified her status as an authoritative figure in this domain. Hardy is praised for her thorough analyses and captivating writing manner. She earned her Master’s in Journalism from the University of Arts, with a focus on arts, culture journalism and now she provides amazing student friendly content on News.EssayHub

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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 177,052 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

• 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.

• 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

• 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

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

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

Community Q&A

• 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

You Might Also Like

• http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/word-help/double-space-the-lines-in-a-document-HP010016550.aspx
• http://wptoolbox.com/tips/DoubleSpacing.html

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• Writing Tips

MS Word Tips: How to Use Double Spacing

3-minute read

• 7th November 2023

Double spacing in Microsoft Word is a formatting technique that can enhance the readability and presentation of your documents. Whether you’re a student working on an essay, a professional drafting a report, or a writer formatting a manuscript, understanding how to use double spacing effectively is essential.

In this blog post, we’ll break down what double spacing is, and how to apply it to your text. We’ll also share some handy keyboard shortcuts to help make the process even more efficient.

What Is Double Spacing?

Double spacing refers to the practice of inserting a blank line between each line of text in a document, effectively making it appear as though there’s an empty line between each line of text. This spacing style is particularly useful for a variety of document types and scenarios.

When Is Double Spacing Commonly Used?

Most academic institutions require essays, research papers, and dissertations to be double-spaced. This format makes it easier for professors to provide feedback and annotations. Additionally, many style guides (such as MLA ) use double spacing.

If you’re a writer or author, you’ll often find publishers and literary agents prefer double-spaced manuscripts. This format allows for easier editing and readability. Business documents, such as reports and proposals, and legal documents often benefit from double spacing as well.

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How to Apply Double Spacing in Microsoft Word

Let’s go through the steps to apply double spacing to your text in Microsoft Word.

Method 1: Using the Ribbon

• Open your Microsoft Word document.
• Highlight the text you want to double space or press Ctrl + A to select the entire document.
• Go to the Home tab on the Ribbon.
• In the Paragraph group, locate the Line Spacing option. It usually looks like three lines with an arrow next to it.
• Click on the arrow to open the Line Spacing menu.
• Select 2.0 from the menu, which represents double spacing. Alternatively, you can click on the arrow at the bottom right-hand corner of the Paragraph group and select 2.0 under Line Spacing .

Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

• Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + 2 to quickly apply double spacing.

Mastering the art of double spacing in Microsoft Word is a valuable skill for anyone who deals with Word documents regularly. Whether you’re a student, writer, or professional, knowing when and how to use double spacing can greatly improve the readability and presentation of your work.

And once you’ve finished writing your document, be sure to send it to one of our expert editors! We’ll ensure your grammar, spelling, punctuation, formatting, referencing, and more are perfect. You can try out our proofreading service for free today.

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Double Spaced Essay Guide: Tips for Formatting Your Paper

Writing an essay is a  vital task  for both students and professionals. This could range from academic papers and blog posts to business reports. An  essential  part of crafting your text is attention to formatting, notably the spacing between lines and paragraphs.

Proper spacing not only impacts your document’s readability and visual appeal but also affects the  word count . Furthermore, it plays a significant role in the impression you leave on your readers, which directly influences the feedback you might receive, whether from instructors or clients.

Need help doing your assignment?

A commonly adopted format is  double spacing . This involves leaving an empty line between each line of text, greatly enhancing readability and providing space for comments or corrections. Despite its benefits, there’s often confusion around the  exact definition of double spacing, how to implement it across various word processing tools, and its appropriateness for different essay types.

What is Double Spaced in an Essay?

Double spacing is a  formatting technique  that creates extra space between the lines of text in an essay. It is often required by teachers and professors in higher institutions of learning, such as colleges and universities. A double spaced essay is an essay that has two blank lines between each line of text, making it  easier to read and edit .

A double spaced essay also has one inch margins around the paper and  no extra space between the paragraphs .

How do I make an essay double spaced?

To make an essay double spaced, you need to use a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Depending on the program, you can follow these steps to set up double spacing:

• Select all the text in your essay by pressing  Ctrl+A  or  Command+A .
• Go to the Home tab and click on the  Line and Paragraph Spacing  icon. Alternatively, you can go to the Layout or Design tab and click on the  Paragraph Spacing  option.
• Choose  2.0  or  Double  from the drop-down menu. This will apply double spacing to your entire essay.

Is 2.0 double spaced?

Yes, 2.0 is considered double spaced. The industry standard for double spacing is  2.0 , meaning there should be two blank lines between each line of text.

This allows for a  comfortable reading experience  and makes it easier to spot mistakes.

How many paragraphs is a double spaced paper?

The number of paragraphs in a double spaced paper depends on the length and structure of your essay. There is no fixed rule for how many paragraphs you should have, but a general guideline is to have  one paragraph for each main point or idea . You can also use transitions and headings to organize your paragraphs and make your essay more coherent.

The length of each paragraph can vary, but a typical paragraph in a double spaced paper has about 100 to 200 words.

Is an MLA essay double spaced?

Yes, an MLA essay is double spaced. MLA style is a common citation and formatting style for academic papers, especially in the humanities. MLA style requires that the entire essay, including the title, headings, and Works Cited page, is double spaced.

The only exception is  block quotations , which are single spaced and indented.

What does a 500 word essay look like double spaced?

A  500 word essay  is a concise piece of writing, typically encompassing three to five paragraphs. This format is frequently utilized for assignments in both high school and college settings.

When double spaced, a 500 word essay spans approximately one to two pages, with the exact length affected by the chosen font size and margin settings. Given that a standard double spaced page features between  275 to 300 words , a 500 word essay would occupy roughly half or two-thirds of a page.

Is double spaced 1.5 or 2?

Double spacing  is not the same as  1.5 spacing . Double spacing means there are  two blank lines  between each line of text, embodying a  2.0 spacing , which is recognized as the industry standard for double spacing.

Is 1.5 spacing ok for APA?

APA style, a predominant formatting and citation approach in social sciences, mandates  double spacing  throughout the entire paper, encompassing the title page, abstract, main text, block quotations, and reference list. An exception exists for block quotations, which should be single spaced and indented. Thus,  1.5 spacing does not align  with APA requirements unless advised otherwise by your instructor or institution.

Is 1.0 single spacing?

Indeed,  1.0 spacing is considered single spacing . It’s the benchmark spacing, entailing  no extra space  between lines, making it a frequent choice for business documents such as letters, memos, and reports.

Are you supposed to double space an essay?

The necessity to  double space an essay  varies based on the essay’s purpose, audience, and specified format. Generally, academic essays prioritize double spacing, particularly when following MLA or APA style guides, as it facilitates readability, editing, and commenting.

While it impacts word count and page length, adherence to instructor or institutional guidelines is paramount, as preferences on spacing may differ.

How to Double Space in MLA Format?

MLA format is a  common style  for academic papers, particularly in the humanities. It adheres to specific guidelines for both formatting and citing sources. One key guideline is the requirement to use  double spacing  throughout your document.

What is Double Spacing?

Double spacing creates an  empty line  between every line of text within your document, exemplified by the spacing of this paragraph. This additional white space not only makes the text more  readable  and easier to edit but also distinguishes it from single spacing, where text lines are directly beneath each other without extra space.

Is MLA Paper Double Spaced?

Indeed, MLA papers require double spacing. This  fundamental aspect  of MLA formatting encompasses all sections of your paper, including the body text, quotations, headings, and the Works Cited page. Double spacing ensures your paper presents a consistent and professional appearance, offering ample room for comments and corrections.

Implementing MLA Double Spacing

Double spacing in MLA format means setting your document to have two blank lines between each text line, known as 2.0 spacing in the industry. To apply this setting in your MLA document:

• Select the text to double space, or use  Ctrl+A  to select the entire document.
• Navigate to the Paragraph or Line Spacing settings in your word processor, typically found in the toolbar or under the Format menu.
• Select  Double  or  2.0  from the drop-down menu to apply double spacing to your selected text.
• Click  OK  or  Apply  to confirm your adjustments.

Do you skip a line between paragraphs in an essay?

The answer to this question  depends  on the formatting style and the type of document you are writing. Different styles, such as APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard, have  different rules  for spacing between paragraphs. Similarly, different types of documents, such as academic papers, blog posts, emails, and books, may have different preferences for paragraph spacing.

What do double spaced paragraphs look like?

Double spaced paragraphs use an entire empty line in between lines of text. This means that there is  twice as much vertical space between the lines  as there is within the lines. Double spacing is often used for readability and for editing purposes, especially in academic papers and manuscripts.

Here is an example of a double spaced paragraph :

“Double spacing uses an entire empty line in between lines of text. As the most spacious of the common options for line spacing, it is great for readability . It can also make text seem less overwhelming, although for long works it can be too spacious and make the entire work too lengthy, which is why most books are single-spaced. Double spacing is ideal for works that require editing, like school papers or submission manuscripts. Historically, the extra space between lines was used for handwritten notes and corrections, but this is less common in the digital era.”

How many spaces should you skip between paragraphs?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as different styles and types of documents may have different preferences. However, a  general rule of thumb  is to use one of the following methods to separate paragraphs:

• Indent the first line of each paragraph by five spaces or half an inch. This creates a visual cue that indicates a new paragraph. Do not add extra space before or after the paragraph. This method is common in academic papers and books.
• Leave a blank line between each paragraph. This creates a clear break between the paragraphs and makes the text look less dense. Do not indent the first line of each paragraph. This method is common in online writing, such as blog posts and emails.

How do you line break without a new paragraph?

Sometimes, you may want to move the text to the next line without starting a new paragraph. This can be useful when you want to keep related ideas together or create a list without bullet points. To do this, you can use a line break, which is a special character that tells the word processor to start a new line.

The most common way to insert a line break is to press Shift and Enter (or Return) at the same time. This will move the text to the next line but keep it in the same paragraph.

For example, here is a list of items created with line breaks:

Apple Banana Orange Pear

How should you separate paragraphs in an essay?

The way you separate paragraphs in an essay  depends  on the purpose and structure of your essay. Generally, you should follow these steps to create effective paragraphs:

• Start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea or point of the paragraph.
• Provide supporting sentences that explain, illustrate, or analyze the topic sentence with evidence, examples, or arguments.
• End with a concluding sentence that summarizes, evaluates, or connects the paragraph to the next one.
• Use a transition word, phrase, or sentence to link the paragraphs and show how they are related.

How many lines do you skip when writing an essay?

The  number of lines you skip  when composing an essay is influenced by the formatting style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard) and the document’s nature. These elements dictate the rules for line and paragraph spacing. While requirements can vary across document types such as academic papers, blog posts, emails, and books, a  general rule  is to adhere to double spacing throughout the essay unless instructed otherwise. This approach leaves one empty line between each line of text. Avoid extra line skips between paragraphs unless employing the blank line method for paragraph separation.

When to put space between paragraphs?

The decision to  space paragraphs  apart depends on the formatting style and document type. Yet, a broad guideline suggests inserting space between paragraphs to foster a clear distinction and enhance the text’s readability, especially useful in online content like blog posts and emails.

Spacing can be achieved by leaving a blank line or adjusting your word processor’s spacing settings. Conversely, avoid spacing in contexts where new paragraphs are indicated visually, such as in academic papers and books, to preserve logical coherence. This visual indication can be accomplished by indenting the first line of each paragraph or through specific formatting features.

How to transition from one paragraph to another?

Transitions  are essential tools in writing, providing pathways for your readers between paragraphs or sections and demonstrating how your arguments or ideas interlink. Effective transitions, which can appear at a paragraph’s start or end (or both), are crucial for maintaining a coherent narrative. They include:

• Additive transitions  introduce new information or ideas, such as “moreover,” “furthermore,” “additionally,” “also,” and “in addition.”
• Adversative transitions  present contrasting concepts or information, exemplified by “however,” “nevertheless,” “on the other hand,” and “conversely.”
• Causal transitions  explain cause and effect relationships, with examples being “therefore,” “thus,” “consequently,” “as a result,” and “because.”
• Sequential transitions  clarify the order of ideas or events, indicated by “first,” “second,” “third,” “next,” “then,” and “finally.”

Choose transitions that are  relevant , clear, and align with your essay’s purpose. Avoid overuse or overly general transitions, ensuring each aids the flow of your argument or narrative seamlessly. Below are samples of effective transitions:

“Some experts argue that prioritizing individual actions in addressing climate change diverts attention from necessary collaborative effort. However, others believe in the critical role of individual efforts in fostering collective change awareness. Annie Lowery highlights the significance of individual actions in driving social change, noting their potential to transform values and mobilize more people towards combating climate change.

A common personal initiative towards reducing carbon footprint is recycling. This process not only repurposes waste but also minimizes the demand for new materials, saving energy and preserving natural resources while reducing pollution.

Nonetheless, recycling’s efficiency and impact are constrained by factors like the quality and cost of recyclable materials, underscoring its complexities and challenges.”

How do you break a line between paragraphs?

Creating a visual separation between paragraphs is essential for organizing ideas, enhancing readability, and improving the visual appeal of your document. While not always necessary, understanding when and how to effectively break a line between paragraphs can significantly impact your writing’s clarity and presentation.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the circumstances under which breaking a line between paragraphs is advisable, the methods available for creating such breaks, and the tools you can use to implement them seamlessly.

When to break a line between paragraphs?

Deciding when to insert a break between paragraphs depends largely on the document’s style and purpose. As a rule of thumb, incorporating a break is beneficial when you aim to create a distinct separation that reduces text density, thereby improving readability. This technique is particularly useful in online content like blog posts and emails, where visual appeal and ease of reading are paramount.

To introduce a break, you can either leave a blank line between paragraphs or employ a spacing feature in your word processor. Conversely, avoid breaks when seeking to subtly signal the start of a new paragraph, which is often the case in academic papers and books to maintain logical flow and coherence.

For subtle cues, consider indenting the first line of each paragraph or using specific formatting features in your word processor to indicate the beginning of a new section.

How to break a line between paragraphs in Microsoft Word?

Microsoft Word offers several methods for breaking lines between paragraphs to suit your formatting needs:

• Press Enter twice after a paragraph. This method, while straightforward, may not align with your document’s formatting style and could impact the overall length and word count.
• Select your targeted text or press Ctrl+A to select the entire document.
• Navigate to the Home tab and click on the Line and Paragraph Spacing icon, or right-click the text and select Paragraph.
• Choose the appropriate spacing option, such as 6 pt or 12 pt, or opt to Remove Space After Paragraph for a tighter appearance.
• Click OK or Apply to finalize your adjustments.
• Select your text or use Ctrl+A for the entire document.
• Go to the Design or Layout tab and click Paragraph Spacing.
• Select a spacing style like Compact, Tight, Open, or Relaxed, or customize your settings.
• Click OK or Apply to apply your changes.

How to break a line between paragraphs in Google Docs?

Google Docs, a web-based word processor, provides flexible options for adjusting paragraph breaks:

• Similar to Word, pressing Enter twice creates a blank space between paragraphs, though this might not suit all formatting guidelines.
• Select the text or press Ctrl+A for the full document.
• From the Format menu, choose Line Spacing.
• Pick a spacing level like 1.15, 1.5, or 2.0, or select Custom Spacing for more control.
• Click OK or Apply to make the changes.
• Select your text or the entire document with Ctrl+A.
• Access Paragraph Styles from the Format menu.
• Choose a style that meets your needs, such as Normal Text or Heading 1.
• Confirm your selection with OK or Apply.

How to break a line between paragraphs in HTML?

HTML offers straightforward methods for paragraph and line breaks:

• To create a new paragraph, use the  <p>  tag, which introduces space before and after the text. Implement by enclosing your text within  <p></p>  tags, for example,  <p>This is a paragraph.</p> .
• For a direct line break within a paragraph, the  <br/>  tag is your go-to. Insert it where you want the break, like so:  This is a line<br/>with a break.

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How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay  

• Post category: Nursing
• Reading time: 15 mins read

How do you write a double-spaced essay? To write a double-spaced essay, first compose your essay in a word processor like Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Then, select your text and choose the ‘2.0’ option in the line spacing feature, which adds a full line of space after each line of text. This formatting makes your essay more readable and is often required in academic settings for clarity and ease of commenting.

This article will guide you through writing and formatting a double spaced essay, a skill essential for academic success.

What is a Double-Spaced Essay?

A double-spaced essay is a piece of writing composed on standard-sized paper (8.5″ x 11″) featuring one-inch margins. It is characterized by having double spaces between the lines within a paragraph while maintaining standard spacing between the paragraphs. 

A double-spaced essay typically contains about 275 to 300 words per page , depending on the font size and style. This spacing format is preferred because it allows tutors to easily read, correct, and understand the ideas presented in the essay.

The word count per page can also vary based on the page margins. For example, an essay on an A4-sized page might have fewer words than one on a standard page with one-inch margins, which generally holds around 275 words.

For shorter essays, which range from 250 to 1000 words, with 500 words being common in college, the length can vary based on the essay’s requirements, prompt, and topic.

Students are often advised to use a font size of 11 or 12, depending on the font type. Not adhering to the specified spacing and formatting guidelines can result in penalties, including grade reductions.

Significance of Double Spacing in Essays and Assignments

Double spacing is significant for several reasons:

• Enhanced Readability: The additional space between lines prevents the text from appearing too dense, making it easier for readers to follow.
• Room for Comments: Double spacing allows instructors to insert comments and feedback in academic settings.
• Standardization: Many academic institutions and publications require double spacing to maintain a uniform appearance across all documents.
• Error Detection and Editing Ease: The extra space makes it easier to spot and correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, thereby improving the overall quality of the writing.
• Professional Appearance: Double-spaced documents have a cleaner, more professional look, essential in academic and professional contexts where presentation is as important as content.

Double-Spacing vs. Other Styles of Spacing for Essays

Double-spacing is a common formatting style for essays, but it’s not the only option. Comparing it with other spacing styles can help understand their uses and benefits:

Double-Spacing: This style places a full blank line between each line of text. It’s preferred in academic settings for its readability and space for annotations. It’s ideal for longer essays where detailed feedback is expected. Here is an image showing what a double-spaced essay looks like:

Single-Spacing: In this style, lines of text are directly below each other with no extra space in between. It’s more compact, allowing more words per page. Single-spacing is often used for business documents or in settings where space is limited. Here is an image showing what a single-spaced essay looks like:

1.5 Spacing: This is a middle ground between single and double spacing. It makes text more readable than single spacing while saving space compared to double spacing. It’s suitable for shorter essays or documents where moderate readability is required. Here is an image showing what a 1.5-spaced essay looks like:

How to Set Double-Spacing on Your Computer

Setting double-spacing on your computer is a key skill for creating well-formatted documents, particularly for academic or professional writing. Below are simple steps to achieve double spacing in popular word processing programs like Microsoft Word and Pages on a Mac. By following these instructions, you can ensure your documents meet the necessary formatting standards for clarity and readability.

Pages on a Mac

To set double-spacing in your document using the Pages word processor on a Mac, follow these steps:

• Start by highlighting the text in your document if you have already written something.
• Click on the ‘Inspector’ button, identifiable by its blue icon located at the top right corner of your window.
• A new window will open; here, select the ‘Text’ tab, represented by a large “T”.
• In this tab, locate the ‘Spacing’ section and enter ‘2’ in the box next to the slider, setting your document to double-spaced formatting.

On Microsoft Word Processor

To double-space your assignment in a Word document, simply follow these steps:

• If you’ve already typed some text in your Word document, begin by selecting (highlighting) it. If your document is still blank, you can skip this step. 

• Next, click on the ‘Page Layout’ tab. 

• In the ‘Paragraph’ section, you’ll notice a small arrow in the bottom left corner; click on this arrow to open a new window. 

• The ‘Indents and Spacing’ tab will be open by default. Locate the ‘Line spacing’ dropdown menu and choose ‘Double’. 
• Finally, click ‘OK’ to apply the changes.

How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay in 9 Simple Steps

Writing a double-spaced essay involves several key steps to ensure clarity, coherence, and proper formatting. Here are nine simple steps to guide you through the process:

Read the Essay Prompt

Understanding the essay prompt requires an in-depth examination of the prompt to grasp its key themes, questions, or requirements. Identifying these elements is essential as they form the backbone of your essay. Themes guide the direction of your research and writing, helping you stay focused and relevant.

The specific questions in the prompt dictate the areas you need to cover, ensuring that your essay is comprehensive and addresses all necessary points. Additionally, understanding any specified requirements, such as word count or formatting, is vital to ensure your essay meets the expected standards. 

Select a Good Essay Topic

The key is to balance a topic that captivates your interest and one that aligns closely with the prompt’s requirements. It’s important to choose a subject you know or have a strong interest in, as this will reflect the depth and quality of your writing. At the same time, the topic should be sufficiently narrow or specific, allowing you to explore it in detail within the confines of your essay’s length.

This specificity ensures that you can delve deeply into the topic without exceeding word limits or skimming over important details. The right topic keeps you motivated throughout the writing process and ensures that your essay is focused, detailed, and relevant to the prompt.

Use Appropriate Evidence

Using appropriate evidence is a cornerstone of writing a strong, persuasive essay. It involves conducting thorough research to gather information from credible and authoritative sources. These sources can range from academic journals, which provide peer-reviewed and expert insights, to books authored by respected figures in the field and reputable websites known for their factual accuracy.

The key is to ensure that these sources are relevant to your essay’s topic and current, reflecting the latest research and developments. The evidence you select should directly support your thesis or main argument, providing solid backing for your claims. 

Present Your Facts Well

Presenting facts effectively in your essay involves structuring it to ensure a logical flow from one point to the next. Each paragraph should center around a clear main idea substantiated by the evidence you’ve gathered. Using transitional phrases to weave these paragraphs together is essential to maintaining coherence throughout your essay.

This approach strengthens the clarity of your argument and enhances the overall readability, guiding your reader through a well-reasoned, cohesive narrative.

Have a Good Essay Structure

A well-structured essay is pivotal for effective communication of your ideas. It typically comprises an introduction that introduces the thesis and outlines the main points, a body where these points are developed and supported with evidence, and a conclusion that summarizes the main arguments and restates the thesis, providing a cohesive end to your narrative.

This clear structure not only guides the reader through your argument but also reinforces the cohesiveness and persuasiveness of your essay.

Use Simple Vocabulary

Using simple vocabulary is crucial in essay writing. While demonstrating knowledge is important, avoiding overly complex or technical language that might confuse the reader is essential. The goal is to communicate your ideas clearly and effectively. Opt for straightforward and accessible language, ensuring that your points are conveyed with clarity and precision.

This approach makes your essay more readable and ensures that your arguments are understood by a wider audience, regardless of their expertise in the subject matter.

Use Short and Long Sentences

Incorporating a mix of short and long sentences is an effective way to enhance the readability and impact of your essay. Short sentences are useful for making clear, impactful statements, while longer sentences allow for more detailed explanations and drawing connections between ideas.

This variety in sentence length adds rhythm and dynamism to your writing and helps maintain the reader’s interest, ensuring that complex ideas are conveyed with clarity and effectiveness.

Balance Your Paragraphs

Balancing your paragraphs is key to creating a well-structured and engaging essay. Aim for each paragraph to be of a length that allows a complete and coherent idea or argument to be fully developed without becoming overly lengthy or cumbersome. This balance ensures that each point is given adequate attention and explanation, enhancing the clarity and flow of your essay while also keeping it digestible and easy to follow for the reader.

Edit and Format Correctly

After completing your draft, revise and edit your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Pay attention to the overall flow and clarity of your essay. Ensure that it is double-spaced per the required formatting standards, and check for any other specific formatting requirements, such as font size, margins, and citation style.

Should my College Essays be Double Spaced?

Yes, your college essays should generally be double-spaced. This formatting standard is widely adopted in academic writing because it enhances readability and allows instructors to make comments and suggestions. However, always check the specific guidelines your instructor or institution provides, as requirements can vary.

Conclusion on Writing a Double-Spaced Paper Format

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge of what a double-spaced essay entails, the steps to set double spacing on your computer, and strategies to enhance the quality of your double-spaced writing, thereby improving your chances of securing a better grade. These principles hold true regardless of the formatting style – be it MLA, Harvard, APA, or Chicago.  Following these guidelines, you can produce a well-crafted, double-spaced essay that effectively communicates your ideas and meets the required academic criteria.

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How to Write a Double-Spaced Essay and Score an A for it

Published by Boni on November 11, 2022 November 11, 2022

What Does Double-Spaced Mean

In writing, formatting is essential to improving readability and successfully communicating ideas. Double spacing is a frequent formatting strategy. Whether you are a student, a professional writer, or someone who interacts with written materials frequently, it is essential to comprehend double spacing. You should also assess how it might affect the display and readability of your work.

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Double spacing is simply adding an extra line of space between each line of text. This gives the page a more open appearance and simplifies reading and editing. You can modify the line spacing in word processing systems through settings. For instance, the “Line Spacing” option in a Word document allows users to choose between single, 1.5, and double line spacing. In the majority of word processing programs, double-spacing is usually the default setting.

There are several reasons why writers utilize double spacing. Long passages of text may become easier to read, and it aids in maintaining the reader’s attention on the key ideas. Double spacing can also be used to divide lengthy passages into smaller, easier-to-read portions. Most essays, reports, articles, letters, and more, use this formatting style.

What is a Double-Spaced Essay?

A double-spaced essay is an essay where you separate the lines by one inch around the article with no extra space between the paragraphs. A double-spaced essay should be on a standard-sized (8.5”x 11”) paper with an inch margin around the document.

A double-spaced paper has 275 or 300 words per page, depending on the typeface. Here is a 2 paragraph double spaced essay example .

Double-Spaced Essay Format

It is essential to know how to format your document after writing. No matter the size of the paper, it is always possible to double space, but you should know how the program you have written your documents works. The most common programs students use are Word (Mac version) and Microsoft word.

For the Microsoft word

• You need to highlight the text.
• Open the page layout function at the top.
• In the paragraph section, find a small black arrow on the lower left side
• Click on the arrow to open a new window
• Then open the “intervals and indents” function; if not opened.
• Select the “line spacing,” which is on the double list section
• Click “Ok” to effect and save the changes

For Word (Mac Version), the instructions are as follows:

• Highlight all text or selected lines
• Click the inspector on the upper right corner (blue button)
• A new window will open
• Find a section called “Text” (labeled with a big “T”)
• Click on the interval section
• Enter 2 for double spacing on the right side of the selection bar
• Click “Ok” to save the changes

How to Set Double-Spacing on Your Computer

You can double-space all or part of a word document. Alternatively, some prefer to edit the document to spacing and format after writing, while others prefer keeping everything organized from the beginning, which means you write with double spacing from the start.

The following are double spacing steps on Word (Mac version) or MS Word Processor.

Documents on Mac Version

Use the following steps to double-space your document if you use the word mac version to process your pages.

• To double-space a specific text, highlight the text.
• Then click a blue button (inspector) on the right of your window.
• Select the “T” or Text tab in the new window that pops up
• Go to the section named spacing and write 2 into the box of the slide bar to the right.

On MS Word Processor

Follow the following space to double-space if you use a word document to write your essay.

1. Highlight the text you want to double space

2. Go to the paragraph section under the home tab, and on the bottom left corner, click the small arrow.

3. There will pop up a new window with different settings, including; spacing, identification, and general .

4. Click on the drop-down arrow on the line spacing

5. From the list, choose “double.”

6. Click on the box “ Don’t add space between paragraphs of the same style .”

7. Press OK to save and effect the changes.

All Microsoft word processing versions use more or less the same steps when double spacing.

If you want to use the double spacing from the beginning when writing, you can adjust the line spacing on your Microsoft word processor toolbar.

• Go to the paragraph section on the home tab and find the line and paragraph spacing button.
• Click on the button to find more options

• Select 2.0 for double spacing
• Click OK to save the changes and double-space your document.

How to Write a Double-spaced Essay

You do not have to struggle when writing a double-spaced essay. The trick is to curate an interesting essay, just like you would for any other essay. Then, follow the right formatting style. By following the instructions below, you can ensure that your essay complies with the double-spacing standard and presents your thoughts concisely, readably, and expertly.

• Read the essay prompt

When asked to write a double-spaced essay, you must always start by carefully reading the assignment prompt. It enables you to analyze the question, generate ideas for a healthy subject, and select the top subject for your essay. Furthermore, you learn your article’s spacing, font type, size, and word count. It is a crucial phase of essay writing.

• Choose an essay topic

You must read the guidelines, then paraphrase the query in your own terms, do some research, assess the potential essay ideas, and select a good topic. Choose a good and narrow topic based on your field of study. Choose a subject where you can easily get resources and genuinely want to write a paper. Select a topic that is relevant to the study area if you are free to choose your own topic.

• Use appropriate materials

In an essay, you must cite all of your sources. First, forgetting to cite evidences in an essay can be viewed as plagiarism, which is prohibited in learning institutions and employment. To achieve scholarly rigor, you must keep track of your reference list and in-citations. Facts from sources that have been rephrased, cited, or summarized make essay paragraphs stronger. It improves the paper’s logic, flow, and thesis statement support.

• Present your facts well

You should have considered the scaffolding of your article when creating or composing an outline or framework. An essay scaffold arranges readings, arguments, and ideas. Put your essay in order. Writers should back up their claims.

Instead of putting up a theory you do not agree with, support your claim with empirical data. Only make snap judgments or conclusions with sufficient evidence. If so, provide proof to back up your claim. Focus on what fascinates them because your article must speak to the reader. Engage readers from the title through the bibliography.

• Have a good essay outline and structure

In addition to choosing the sequence of your arguments, ensure your essay is appropriately organized. A thorough article with a clear framework captures the interest of the reader. The writing process is also made simpler because everything is properly located.

An essay that is well structured will allow you to focus more intently than one that is hastily written. Such an essay (with poor planning) will likely overlook a few things. However, your chances of captivating your audience enhance when you have an essay framework. Thus, a well-structured essay is easy to read.

Why not begin with the body sections instead of the introductory like everyone else does? Your body paragraphs can be produced without the introduction because you have a working thesis. The writing process can be finished by developing the initial thesis into a final thesis depending on the justifications in the body sections, and then writing a captivating introduction. Once you have written your introduction, you may finish your essay by constructing a compelling conclusion that will leave your audience wanting to read more about it.

• Use simple vocabulary

Examining vocabulary is different from the purpose of essays. It is an opportunity to present evidence that backs up your viewpoints. To win your teacher over, use straightforward language. Simplicity is necessary for writing essays. Write clearly.

Make your instructor’s job easier by using clear language. They have no time to use a dictionary; and once they use one, you would annoy them and reduce their grades. Use simple language to communicate. The best writing is written in simple terms. Simple papers will do well when the proofs are given, organized, and flow smoothly.

• Use short and long sentences

Your audience should be impressed by every assignment you write. An essay is more readable when it combines both short and large sentences. Simple, understandable, and concise sentences make it simpler to navigate.

Although it can be tempting to utilize complex sentences occasionally, they are run-on or unclear sentences and should be avoided. You should not be concerned about this when writing. However, cut long sentences with sparse yet intricate vocabulary when editing the document. Once more, it becomes straightforward.

Understanding how to employ short sentences effectively is the key to brevity, coherence, accuracy, composition, and clarity. So, practice frequently and employ this strategy to succeed in your essays. With such skill, you may persuade even the most difficult professor to give you the finest grades.

• Balance your paragraphs

A perfect paragraph in an essay is equivalent to receiving an A+. Although majority of individuals struggle with it, it is not difficult.

Verify the coherence and cohesiveness of your topic sentences. When something is coherent, it has a good flow and a sense of unity. The transitions between your paragraphs should be smooth. A single order-related idea should be discussed in every paragraph.

Finally, the word count in each paragraph needs to be balanced. Remember that 80% of the word count comprises body paragraphs. Accordingly, the three body paragraphs should be spaced out to cover the same material if you are writing an essay of six paragraphs.

• Edit and format your essay correctly.

It is challenging to write. You could feel worn out once you are done because it demands reading, research, and critical thinking. If you format and revise the paper quickly, you will make mistakes. Planning an essay is crucial to allow time for editing and polishing.

Take a break, and then spend some time reading, editing, and formatting your essay objectively. Concentrate on punctuation, grammatical, stylistic, and organizational errors. Ensure that the fonts and font type are appropriate, as well as the spacing. Our essay editing service is available if you find the process time-consuming and exhausting. Once everything is in order, ensure your paper is original, and submit it before the due date.

Double spacing vs. Other Types of Spacing for Essays

You can space your school assignment using three types of spacing: single, 1.5, and double spacing. You should know the spacing type required when writing your school dissertation, research paper, annotated bibliography, report, or essay.

• Double Spaced Document or Paper

It is the most common type of spacing which involves selecting 2.0 spaces between paragraph lines without any other spaces between paragraphs. Most college assignments, theses, and dissertations are double-spaced.

• 1.5 Spaced Document or Essay

A 1.5-spaced paper has sentences or lines in a paragraph spaced from each other using 1.5 mm space and has no spaces between paragraphs.

• Single Spaced Document

Single spacing is typing that does not leave lines blank. A single-spaced document has a space of 1.0 between the lines in a paragraph, which creates little room for feedback, remarks, and comments. You should use single spacing only when the requirement says so.

However, whether your essay is on Mac or a word document, you can change the spacing of your paper to different spacing styles any time you need.

Pages vs. Spacing Chart

Below is a table that compares the number of pages and words to different spacing styles.

500 Word Example of a Double-Spaced Essay

There are many samples of double-spaced essays on the internet that will enable you to understand these essay types. Most of these samples have picture evidence, a format that helps your understanding. The double-spacing form is used mainly by book authors when sending a text to the publisher to allow enough spacing for error correction by the editors. The extra space allows the editor to make comments or remarks.

Also, students can use double spacing when writing their draft essays as it gives spaces for supervisors or teachers to comment and make remarks before a student can draft the final copy. For example, a student can use a double-spacing format for scientific text, which gives extra space to highlight any grammatical errors or minor flaws that need to be corrected.

Get a quality plagiarism free 500 words essay by using our AI powered essay generator .

Benefits of Double Spacing in Essays

The following are the advantages of using double spaces in your thesis.

• Creates space for crucial notes

Sometimes you may want to include important notes when taking an exam or writing an essay, but the notes cannot fit in your document body without making it look unprofessional. But with a double-spaced essay, there is enough space at the end of each paragraph where you can write end notes or footnotes without disturbing the flow of the reading.

• It makes your essay easy to read

A double-spaced essay means there are few words in a line. This makes it easy to read since you will not have to often move your eyes from one end of the page to the other. There are no line breaks in double-spaced lines to distract you from the flow of ideas, and it is easy to skim through the sentences.

• Help emphasize important points

It may be challenging to notice when you have repeated a phrase or word using single spacing, making the content look repetitive. However, double spacing creates more spaces between repeated texts and phrases such that they stand out more prominently.

• Reduces typos

Double-spaced punction marks such as commas and full stops are more visible than when single-spaced. It lets the reader know where a sentence starts or ends without rereading previous phrases or sentences. It is more crucial, especially if the reader is learning English, as they will see where there are commas and where sentences end, and also easy for proofreaders.

• It makes your writing look professional

Most readers want a document that is convenient and easy to read within a short period. Your writing skills should look professional and impress the reader at first glance. You can achieve this by double spacing, as it makes the document easy to read and creates an impression of professionalism.

Explore an example of a double spaced essay about how to tame a Wild Tongue – summary and response.

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Students often face time constraints in balancing academic and life activities. If you are in this category, you can seek assistance from Gudwriter, and you will have your double-spaced essay written within the shortest time possible. We have a team of seasoned writers experienced in different subjects to craft your essay.

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APA 7th Edition Style Guide: Formatting Your Paper

• About In-text Citations
• In-Text Examples
• What to Include
• Volume/Issue
• Bracketed Descriptions
• URLs and DOIs
• Book with Editor(s)
• Book with No Author
• Book with Organization as Author
• Book with Personal Author(s)
• Chapters and Parts of Books
• Classical Works
• Course Materials
• Journal Article
• Magazine Article
• Multi-Volume Works
• Newspaper Article
• Patents & Laws
• Personal Communication
• Physicians' Desk Reference
• Social Media
• Unpublished Manuscripts/Informal Publications (i.e. course packets and dissertations)
• Formatting Your Paper
• Formatting Your References
• Annotated Bibliography
• Headings in APA
• APA Quick Guide
• NEW!* Submit your Paper for APA Review

APA recommends using the same font throughout your paper. IRSC Librarians recommend using 12-point Times New Roman font. If not using Times New Roman, then another serif  or  sans serif typeface should be used for its readability. Only use different typeface in figure descriptions, in that case, use a font between 8 and 14 points.

Line Spacing & Margins

Use double-spacing throughout the entire paper.To add double-spacing in Microsoft Word, highlight all the text you want double-spaced, then click on Page Layout . Next to the word Paragraph click on the arrow. Under Spacing , Line Spacing , select Double and then click OK .

Leave 1 in. margins from top to bottom and side to side. Microsoft Word usually is set to 1 in. margins. You can check this by clicking on Page Layout , then click on Margins. The margin you are using is highlighted, select Normal if it is not already selected. 

Number of Spaces after a Period

APA style recommends placing one space  after a period

• that ends a sentence, 
• when the period separates parts of a reference entry, 
• and after author name abbreviations (i.e. Lander, F. K.).

Do not put a space after a period

• for internal abbreviations (i.e., U.S., p.m.).

Video How-To Set-Up an APA Paper for a Mac

APA Research Paper Template

• APA Research Paper Template for Word 2016 This template was created and saved as a Word template for Microsoft Word 2016.

You can save this template in Microsoft Word (IRSC students, download Office for free, see a librarian if you need help). Above is a template you can use every time you need to set-up a research paper using APA style format. Simply open the template and type your own information every time you need to write an APA style research paper. 

• APA Research Paper Template with an Abstract

The newest edition of APA, 7th edition does not require the use of an abstract for student papers; however, your instructor may wish you to include one. This template has the abstract included.

Sample Paper

The new APA 7th edition has a format for writing a professional paper as well as one for a student paper. These directions are a set-up for student papers. In the header, on the right, is the page number, starting with 1. Centered on the page is the full title of the paper in boldface type. Place one extra space after the title of the paper. Following is the author (or authors if this is a group paper), the department and institution to which the paper is affiliated, the course number and course name, the professor's name, and the due date of the paper.

The text of your paper begins on the second page. The full title starts it off at the top center of a new page, in boldface font. For the rest of the paper, you only need page numbers in the header. Remember to cite!

Your References start on its own page and goes at the end of your paper. Title it References, centered, and bold-faced at the top. The references are alphabetized and have a hanging indent.

• << Previous: Websites
• Next: Formatting Your References >>
• Last Updated: Feb 13, 2024 6:21 PM
• URL: https://irsc.libguides.com/APA

How to Double Space a Word Document

Double spacing your text can make it more legible. Let's look at the different ways to set double spacing in Word.

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 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 .

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.

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.

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.

How-To Geek

How to double-space on google docs.

Following APA guidelines? Then you'll need to double-space that text.

Quick Links

Table of contents, how to double-space the current google doc, how to set "double space" as the default.

If you're writing an essay using the APA guidelines , your text will need to be double-spaced. You can apply double-spacing to text in Google Docs (and save it as the default style) in just a few clicks.

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 three lines) in the toolbar.

In the drop-down menu that appears, click "Double."

The selected text is now double-spaced.

Related: The Beginner's Guide to Google Docs

If you frequently use double-spaced line spacing, you can set it as the default style for new documents in Google Docs. To do so, open a Google Doc file that already has double-spacing applied, or go ahead and apply it now .

Next, click "Format" in the menu bar.

A drop-down menu will appear. Hover your cursor over the "Paragraph Styles" option. A sub-menu will appear. Hover your cursor over "Options" at the bottom of the menu.

Another sub-menu will appear. Here, click "Save as my Default Styles."

Now, when you create a new document in Google Docs, the default line spacing will be double-spaced. For documents that already exist, however, you'll need to manually apply double-spacing.

That's all there is to it. Whether for an essay in APA style, for a teacher who insists on double-spacing, or for personal preference alone, your document is now double-spaced. All that's left to do now is share it !

Related: How to Share Links to Your Google Doc as a PDF

Calculate for all schools

Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, college essays—should they be double spaced.

Hi! I'm starting to work on my college application essays and I'm a little confused about formatting. Should college essays be double spaced or is it okay to keep it single spaced? Just want to make sure I'm doing it right. Thanks!

Hi there! It's great that you're paying attention to details like formatting for your college application essays. Most college application essays don't have specific formatting requirements, but generally speaking, it's a good idea to double-space your essay. Double spacing can make the essay easier to read and gives it a more polished appearance.

However, it's essential to check the requirements of each college you're applying to, as they may have specific formatting guidelines you should follow. When submitting essays through platforms like the Common Application or Coalition Application, the formatting is automatically set and doesn't usually require you to adjust spacing.

If you're sending your essay via email or uploading it as a separate document, it's best to use a standard format: 12-point font, Times New Roman or Arial, and double-spaced. Remember to include your name and the essay prompt you're responding to at the top of the page.

Best of luck with your college application essays!

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Formatting the Essay

The next thing you’ll want to do is get your spacing right. Spacing refers to the amount of space there is between lines of text. You’ve likely noticed different sizes of spacing across different styles of writing you’ve read. For example, most books are published with very little space in between the lines of text:

This is because the formatting rules of novel-writing call for “single-spaced” text.

Academic writing, on the other hand, is different. The formatting rules for this style of writing calls for “double-spaced” text (as shown in the image below). To adjust the space settings on your own Word document, highlight the text and then follow these steps:

• Step 1: Click on the “Home” tab at the top left of your screen
• Step 2: Click on the “spacing” icon and select “2.0” from the dropdown menu

• Write an equation or formula Article
• Indent the first line of a paragraph Article
• Double-space the lines in a document Article
• Create a bibliography, citations, and references Article
• Insert footnotes and endnotes Article

Double-space the lines in a document

You can double-space all or part of a Word document.

To double-space the whole document, go to Design > Paragraph Spacing , and choose Double .

Single-space the lines in a document

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