How to Insert a Line Break or New Paragraph in LaTeX
To break a line in LaTeX without starting a new paragraph, use \\ (two backslashes). To start a new paragraph, leave a blank line between blocks of text — do not use \\ for that. For a page break use \newpage, and for extra vertical space use \vspace{1em}.
Why it happens
LaTeX ignores single line breaks in your source and joins text into paragraphs. Spacing is controlled by commands and blank lines, not by pressing Enter.
Example
First line.\\
Second line, same paragraph.
A blank line above starts a new paragraph.
\vspace{1cm} % extra vertical space
\newpage % force a new pageFrequently asked questions
Why does pressing Enter not break the line?
LaTeX treats a single newline as a space and merges lines into paragraphs. Use \\ for a forced line break or a blank line for a new paragraph.
What is the difference between \\ and \newline?
They are nearly identical for breaking a line; \\ also accepts optional spacing like \\[6pt]. \newpage is different — it starts a new page.
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