[How To] Add Line Space Above and Below Text

You can improve the readability of your document by adjusting the line spacing between lines and paragraphs. If the default settings on the table of contents or other parts of the document are too narrow, you can adjust these settings. This gives the document more breathing spaces, making it easier to read.

Usability and benefit to reader

Let’s say you have a document with the usual mix of headings, tables and paragraph text. One way to improve the layout is to play with the spacing around the text.

For example, you can emphasize the importance a Heading by putting 12 points between it and the next paragraph. Likewise, you can set off paragraphs from each other by adding a consistent amount of text above and below.

Video – Add Line Spacing in MS Word

How To Steps

To add line spacing above and below text, follow these steps:

  1. Select the text you want to modify.
  2. Click Format, Paragraph and enter the amount of line spacing in the Before and After fields.
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  3. Click OK

You can use the Preview window to see how the text will appear.