Line spacing problems

Question

I have a Word document in compatibility mode that has some paragraphs with single spaced lines and double spaced lines within the same paragraph. How do I change the paragraph to have only single line spacing?

Answer 1

Line spacing [aka Leading] is a Paragraph attribute which is a function of font size. The terms used (such as Single, Double, etc.) are not specific value settings. They're what I call convenience terms provided in the User Interface. It isn't possible to specify multiple Line Spacing values within the same paragraph.

One condition that can give the impression of mixed line spacing is when differing font sizes have been used in that paragraph. The standard Line Spacing value for "single" is 120% of the font size (although that can vary somewhat based on the discretion of the font designer). Accordingly, 120% of 12 pt is tighter than 120% of 14 pt., but both are single. If the font size varies the spacing for that line is adjusted based on the largest font size used, but the Line Spacing still is single.

Certain formatting attributes can give that appearance, as well. One such attribute is the setting to Raise/Lower selected text in Format> Font - Position.

Another, but less common, cause is when an image is inserted as In Line with Text. That can cause the line height of that line to be increased to accommodate the height of the image.

All of these conditions, however, usually are apparent - especially if the disparity is as great as you say. I tend to agree with Stefan, though... If you display the non-printing characters [¶] you'll most likely find that what appears to be a single paragraph actually is 2 or more. If so, it's entirely possible that the line spacing for each is different. As Stefan further pointed out, if they are separate paragraphs the gaps actually are caused by Paragraph Spacing Before/Spacing After settings.

Also, by having the ¶s displayed you may well find that the gaps are caused by the creator having banged on the return/enter key in an effort to force space by using "empty" paragraphs.

Answer 2

Hi Rock,

Did you refer to Bob and Stefan's suggeations? Do you need further assistance?

Regards,

Tina

Answer 3

Are you sure all of these lines are in one and the same paragraph? Display nonprinting marks so that you can see where one paragraph ends and the next begins.

Also, keep in mind that the distance between text lines is determined not only by the Line Spacing but also by Spacing Before and Spacing After (where the latter measurements determine, in points, how much extra spacing is added as you press Enter to create a new paragraph).

Answer 4

Yes, Thanks for checking!