How-To Geek

I have a Word document which I started in versions 97-2003 and now Word 2010 & use a scanner to import text into this document.
I have earlier today noticed that there are inconsistencies in this document, which I assume started happening since upgrading to Office 2010 (the gaps between these newly scanned words only are slightly extended). I am aware that highlighting the text then selecting condensed (from the font/advanced/spacing dialogue box) will shorten the space; however if I perform this function the entire word will also get condensed making everything harder to read.

Would anyone know how to: Identify the original text layout/configuration (from Word 97-2003 text); and then apply the same settings to the entire document;
and/or apply the same settings and changes to the source document, to prevent these changes from happening again?

Thanks Lynda - this site looks like it is invaluable.
I have two questions though: I understand that I would have to subscribe in order to watch tutorial video's - is there a fee for these video's?
Would you know if there is a similar online course for Powerpoint 2010?