As a language expert with a deep understanding of typographical conventions and their evolution over time, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer to your question about the use of spaces after a period in a sentence.
The practice of using two spaces after a period is a holdover from the era of typewriters. On a typewriter, there is no way to adjust the width of the spaces between words; all spaces are the same. Because the monospaced typeface used on typewriters made it difficult to distinguish between the end of a sentence and the space between words, two spaces were used after a period to provide visual clarity. This was a necessary convention for the readability of the text on a typewriter.
However, with the advent of computers and modern word processing software, the typeface used for most texts is proportional, meaning that the spaces between words can vary in width. This allows for a single space to be sufficient to separate sentences clearly. As a result, most style guides, including those of the Associated Press (AP), the Modern Language Association (MLA), and the American Psychological Association (APA), have updated their recommendations to use only one space after a period.
The shift from two spaces to one is not just a matter of aesthetics. It also has practical implications for digital text. When text is displayed on a computer screen or a digital device, the use of a single space after a period is more consistent with the way text is rendered in digital formats. This consistency helps to maintain the legibility and professionalism of documents across different platforms.
Moreover, using a single space after a period aligns with the standards set by major publishing houses and professional writing organizations. Adhering to these standards not only improves the presentation of your writing but also demonstrates an understanding of current typographical practices and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
It's worth noting that while the one-space rule is widely accepted, there may be instances where using two spaces is still appropriate. For example, in some academic fields or specific publications, the two-space convention might still be followed. It's always a good idea to check the guidelines of the organization or publication you are writing for to ensure that you are following their specific requirements.
In conclusion, the general rule for using spaces after a period in a sentence is to use just one space. This recommendation is based on the current standards set by leading style guides and the capabilities of modern word processing technology. While there may be exceptions, following the one-space rule will ensure that your writing is consistent with the majority of professional and digital texts.

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Were you taught to put two spaces after a period at the end of a sentence? Many people were, but now most publications recommend using just one. Here's the scoop. If you learned to type on a typewriter, you're going to hate what I say next: Do not put two spaces after a period.May 8, 2015read more >>