Article updated on January 5, 2025 by Byothe
The other day my wife asked me if I knew how to insert a non-breaking space in Word… Well, not only did I not know how to do it, but I didn't even know what a non-breaking space was.
So I did some research and I'm now able to explain what it is and show you how to do it!
What is a non-breaking space?
Un non-breaking space is a topographical sign. It is a somewhat specific space. Indeed, if like a normal space it separates a word from another word or a punctuation mark, it is distinguished from the latter by the fact that it prohibits breaking the line between the two! It therefore improves the readability of a text and is particularly useful for not separating numbers (10) or percentages (534%)…
Insert a non-breaking space in Word
If you want to add a non-breaking space in Word, you have several options that may differ depending on your operating system.
Non-breaking space in Word on Windows
- With the following key combination: Ctrl + Shift + Space
- By holding the " Alt » type « 255 » on the numeric keypad
- By holding the " Alt » type « 0160 » on the numeric keypad
Non-breaking space in Word on MacOS
- With the following key combination: Ctrl + Shift + Space
Via Special Characters for Word on Windows and MacOS
Another option that allows you to avoid having to remember any shortcuts is to use special characters. This option works for Word on Windows and MacOS.
- Open the tab Insertion in the bars from menu at the top
- Look for the button Symbols et click on it
- The Special Characters window opens. Switch to the tab Special characters
- Look for the line Non-breaking space And click Insert
Insert a non-breaking space in other software
Again, it will all depend on your environment.
So, if you are on Windows, you have two options that generally work for typing a non-breaking space:
- By holding the " Alt » type « 255 » on the numeric keypad
- By holding the " Alt » type « 0160 » on the numeric keypad
If you work more on MacOS, the shortcuts used by most software are as follows:
- Press the following key combinations: Option + Space
- Press the following key combinations: Control + Space
