no, bolting is when a plant starts to produce flowers/seeds, some are quick to do this, hence the term "bolting". what you need to do to get it to branch out is to pinch out the growing tips, then branches will form from lower down the main stem. i think, if i 'member right, that i let the first stem get 3 proper leaves (not including the seed leaves) then pinch out the growing tip (where you can see new leaves being produced) and that will force the production of branches. you can then pinch out the growing tips on the branches too, and so on, to get a nice bush.

Do remember as well: supermarket herbs in pots are grown to eat, so they get so far and then fail, the growers aren't really interested in producing good strong plants that will last a while, and in addition, supermarket herbs are forced to grow within the confines of the plastic packaging which will make them look fuller within that confined space.

I'm sure someone else will come along soon with some more tips - I'm sowing my own basil this afternoon so i'll be watching keenly!

Hope that helps!

keth
xx