diff --git a/src/hdmf/backends/io.py b/src/hdmf/backends/io.py
index cd2bb9fbf..35023066f 100644
--- a/src/hdmf/backends/io.py
+++ b/src/hdmf/backends/io.py
@@ -81,6 +81,7 @@ def read(self, **kwargs):
     def write(self, **kwargs):
         container = popargs('container', kwargs)
         herd = popargs('herd', kwargs)
+
         """Optional: Write HERD."""
         if self.herd_path is not None:
             # If HERD is not provided, create a new one, else extend existing one