Why You Need White Space When You Write

Why You Need White Space When You Write (And 5 Ways To Create It)

Whether you are a creative writer or a business writer, you come across this advice: Make sure you have enough white space. Here are five ways to create it.

We all suffer from information overload. It’s often called information fatigue and it can be a result of not enough white space. We need our information to be as easy to read as possible, because we are exposed to so much of it on a daily basis.

We come across this advice again and again: Make sure you have enough white space.

But what does ‘white space’ mean? 

White space is a design principle. Simply, the absence of text draws your eye to the text. It literally refers to the amount of space around and between the words.

It is about creating text that is inviting to the reader. When your text forms a solid block it overwhelms your reader. The reader is negative about it, before they even begin to read.

Think about textbooks. They generally have long paragraphs, with long sentences. There is very little white space. Below is an image of George Orwell’s 1984. It is a good example of a book with very little white space, and even though it’s one of the more readable classics, you still have to work hard.

We should use white space because:
  1. It makes it easier for us to read.
  2. It draws the reader’s attention to the text.
  3. It is uncluttered and calming.

Ways to create white space: 

  1. Use lists. When you list items it makes it scannable. If you have more than three points it is better to number your items instead of using bullets. Try not to use more than 3-5 bullets.
  2. Increase line spacing. If it is possible increase your line spacing on your documents. A good average is 1.5. Remember to refer to the company style guide before you do this.
  3. Shorten your sentences. Long sentences form solid blocks. You should vary the length of your sentences.
  4. Break up paragraphs. Reconsider your paragraphs and try to discuss only one point per paragraph. Use dialogue or quotations to break up paragraphs.
  5. Avoid justifying your documents. People are passionate about justifying their documents, but it makes it harder to read and proofread. Most professional documents have been typeset and your average computer doesn’t typeset very well. It creates rivulets (diagonal spaces) between the words, uneven spaces in sentences and solid blocks of text.

White space is about letting your writing and your reader breathe.

[Top Tip: If you need practical help with your grammar, buy The Complete Grammar Workbook.]

 by Mia Botha
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Posted on: 6th September 2016
(52,431 views)

1 thought on “Why You Need White Space When You Write (And 5 Ways To Create It)”

  1. Delores K.

    Hi Mia. Good article for thought and another way is to Indent portions. However, I respectfully disagree about justifying. Some people prefer to read a clean looking article without jagged edges. Those with OCD, as one example. As an advertising department layout artist I learned that using a different font often helps. Finding one with more space between characters, perhaps taller, or lighter type is sometimes easier on the eyes.

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