TypeTalk: Change Line Spacing in Word

James Fritz

TypeTalk is a regular blog on typography. Post your questions and comments by clicking on the Comments icon above. If Ilene answers your question in the blog, you’ll receive one Official Creativepro.com T-Shirt!
Q. Is there a way to control line spacing in a Microsoft Word document besides the limited single, 1.5, and double options?
A. Yes, though it’s hidden away. This very useful feature can help fine-tune your layout and maximize readability as well as save paper by reducing the number of pages printed.
Here’s how to control line spacing in existing documents:
1. Insert your cursor within a paragraph or select any text.
2. Right-click or go to Format > Paragraph.
3. Select Indents and Spacing.
4. Under Spacing, go to Line spacing and select either At least or Exactly. Use the up/down arrow or type in your desired value. This field accepts percentages in the hundreds.
5. Click OK.
Figure 1. Adjusting line spacing in Word is a snap once you know where to look!

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