TL;DR
OneNote does not offer a native double spacing feature like Word. However, you can simulate OneNote double spacing by using keyboard shortcuts such as pressing Enter twice between paragraphs or copying pre-formatted text from Word. Using tables or text boxes also helps maintain spacing consistency.
Proper spacing is essential when formatting documents, notes, or study material. If you’re looking to use OneNote double spacing in your notebooks, you’re not alone. Many users want their content to breathe with more visual separation, especially for printed documents or when working on formal reports.
While OneNote doesn’t offer a built-in double spacing function like Microsoft Word, there are several workarounds you can use to simulate this formatting style. This guide shows you how to manage spacing effectively and maintain readability in your notes.
Why Double Spacing Matters in Note-Taking
Double spacing can significantly improve readability, particularly when:
- Printing notes for study or review
- Sharing notes in PDF format
- Creating drafts for formal writing
- Separating thoughts visually for easier scanning
Even though OneNote isn’t a word processor, applying formatting practices like double spacing helps create a cleaner layout and enhances the overall reading experience.
Using Enter Twice for Double Spacing
The simplest method to achieve OneNote double spacing is pressing the Enter key twice between paragraphs. This mimics the effect of double spacing without requiring advanced formatting tools.
Example:
First paragraph. [Enter]
[Enter]
Second paragraph.
This manually adds extra vertical space between your content blocks.
Using Word to Format and Paste into OneNote
Since OneNote does not support paragraph spacing adjustments directly, one powerful workaround is formatting your content in Word first.
Steps:
- Open Microsoft Word
- Set line spacing to 2.0 (Home > Line and Paragraph Spacing)
- Write your content
- Copy the formatted text (
Ctrl + C) - Paste into OneNote (
Ctrl + V)
Your double spacing will carry over and display correctly inside OneNote. This is a great trick for users needing professional formatting.
Using Tables to Manage Line Spacing
Another method to simulate spacing is using a table with one column and multiple rows. Each row becomes a standalone paragraph block with space around it.
Steps:
- Insert a 1-column table
- Write one paragraph per row
- Use
Enteronce or twice inside each cell to control spacing
Adjusting row height manually gives you more spacing flexibility, especially in structured documents or forms.
Text Boxes as Spacing Containers
You can create independent text boxes in OneNote by clicking on a blank space and starting to type. Each text box behaves like a floating paragraph container.
Benefits:
- Easily move and space content blocks
- Align sections manually
- Control layout without affecting nearby text
This method offers maximum layout freedom, especially when using OneNote for visual planning or design.
Keyboard Shortcuts to Assist with Spacing
| Action | Shortcut (Windows) | Shortcut (Mac) |
|---|---|---|
| New paragraph | Enter | Return |
| Soft line break (no extra space) | Shift + Enter | Shift + Return |
| Paste formatted text from Word | Ctrl + V | Cmd + V |
| Undo | Ctrl + Z | Cmd + Z |
Use Enter twice between content blocks to visually simulate double spacing. Using Shift + Enter will only create a new line without added space.
Tips for Maintaining Consistency
- Avoid mixing single and double spacing in the same note
- Use formatting consistently across a notebook
- Consider saving a pre-formatted template for future use
- Use Word to standardize formatting before importing
Consistency in your layout keeps your notes clean and reduces visual fatigue during review.
Limitations of OneNote for Double Spacing
| Feature | Available in OneNote? |
|---|---|
| Native line spacing control | ❌ No |
| Manual spacing with Enter | ✅ Yes |
| Import spacing from Word | ✅ Yes |
| Custom paragraph settings | ❌ No |
While OneNote offers a lot of flexibility, it’s important to understand its design limitations compared to full word processors.
FAQ – OneNote Double Spacing
Does OneNote support double spacing like Word?
No, OneNote doesn’t have built-in double spacing. However, you can simulate it using Enter twice or by copying formatted text from Word.
How do I make double spacing in OneNote manually?
Simply press Enter twice between paragraphs to create extra line spacing.
Can I apply double spacing to selected text in OneNote?
No. OneNote lacks a feature to change line spacing for selected text. You must manage spacing manually or use Word.
What’s the best way to keep consistent spacing?
Use templates or always paste text from Word with double spacing already applied.
Can I use tables to control paragraph spacing?
Yes. Inserting a single-column table lets you adjust spacing per row for cleaner layout control.
Conclusion: OneNote and the Art of Double Spacing
Even without native support, achieving OneNote double spacing is possible through creative formatting techniques. Whether you’re formatting notes for clarity, presentation, or printing, using manual spacing, tables, and Word integration provides control over your note layout.
It may require a little extra effort, but with these methods, your OneNote pages will look more structured and easier to read.
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
Advertisment