Writing & StyleStyle guide
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
Core Issuevertical spacing between list items
Registerstructured, professional, and digital writing
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.
When To Add
Extra spacing can help when individual items wrap across multiple lines and visually merge together.
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