List Spacing
Keep ordinary lists compact, but add extra space when long or multi-line items run together and become hard to scan.
Add extra vertical spacing when long, multi-line list items are difficult to distinguish; do not space every list automatically.
Key details
Further guidance
Consistency
Apply the chosen spacing consistently within the same list and design system.
Default
List spacing is a readability choice, not a universal requirement to put blank space after every item.
Practical Application
Keep short, simple lists compact unless the design system says otherwise. Add extra vertical spacing when long or multi-line items visually merge, and apply the chosen spacing consistently within the list.
Reader Check
Can readers distinguish adjacent list items at normal reading width without adding unnecessary blank space?
When To Add
Extra spacing can help when individual items wrap across multiple lines and visually merge together.
Worked Example
A three-item list of one-line labels can remain compact; a list whose items each wrap to three lines may need extra spacing so item boundaries stay clear.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Lists — GOV.UK Design System (opens in a new tab)GOV.UK Design System · Extra spacing between list items when multi-line items are hard to read