Let $X$ be an irreducible curve, and define $\mathcal{L}(D)$ as usual for $D \in \mathrm{Div}(X)$. Define $l(D) = \mathrm{dim} \ \mathcal{L}(D)$. I'd like to show that for any divisor $D$ and point $P$, $\mathcal{l}(D+P) \leq \mathcal l{(D)} + 1$.
Say $D = \sum n_i P_i$. I can prove this provided $P$ is not any of the $P_i$, by considering the map $\lambda : \mathcal{L}(D) \to k$, $f \mapsto f(P)$. This map has kernel $\mathcal{L}(D-P)$, and rank-nullity gives the result.
But if $P$ is one of the $P_i$, say $P=P_j$ then I'm struggling. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks