Double spacing makes documents easier to read and is required for most essays and reports. Here’s how to double space in Google Docs in a few clicks.
How to double space in Google Docs
- Select the text you want to double space (or press Ctrl+A / Cmd+A to select all).
- Click Format in the top menu.
- Go to Line & paragraph spacing.
- Choose Double.
That’s it. You can also use the line spacing icon in the toolbar (it looks like lines with up/down arrows) and pick Double there.
Keyboard shortcuts for line spacing
With your text selected, use these shortcuts: Ctrl+2 (Windows) or Cmd+2 (Mac) for double spacing, Ctrl+1 for single spacing, and Ctrl+5 for 1.5 line spacing.
How to double space in the Google Docs app (mobile)
- Open your document and select the text.
- Tap the formatting icon (the letter A with lines) at the top.
- Tap Paragraph, then use Line spacing to set it to 2.0.
Set double spacing as your default
Format a paragraph with double spacing, then go to Format > Paragraph styles > Options > Save as my default styles so new documents start double-spaced.
Frequently asked questions
What line spacing is “double”?
Double spacing is a 2.0 line-spacing value, leaving a full blank line between lines of text.
Why is double spacing required for essays?
It leaves room for feedback and improves readability, which is why APA and MLA require it.
More Google Docs tips: How to do a hanging indent and How to change margins in Google Docs.