39. How to use the text in columns function in Word

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The columnar text function in Microsoft Word is a useful tool that allows the user to format text into multiple columns, similar to a newspaper or magazine. This can be useful for creating a more professional layout or improving text readability. In this guide, we'll explore how to use the columnar text function in Word, from selecting the number of columns to applying dividing lines between them.

First, you need to open the Word document where you want to apply the column format. Select the text you want to format into columns. If you want to apply the format to the entire document, press Ctrl+A to select all text. If you want to apply to a specific paragraph or section, click and drag to select the desired text.

After selecting the text, go to the 'Layout' tab in the ribbon at the top of the screen. Here, you will find the 'Columns' option. Click it to open a drop-down menu with several column format options. You can choose between one, two, three, left or right. The 'Left' and 'Right' options create a two-column layout, but with a wider column on the left or right, respectively.

Select the number of columns you want for your text. Once you click on the desired option, Word will automatically apply the column format to the selected text. If you want to make more specific changes to the column format, such as changing the width of the columns or the space between them, click 'More Columns' at the bottom of the drop-down menu.

In the 'Columns' window that appears, you can specify the number of columns, the width of each column and the space between them. You can also choose to add a line between the columns for clearer division. After making your selections, click 'OK' to apply the changes.

It's important to note that column formatting applies to selected text. If you start typing after a column-formatted section, Word continues to apply the column format to the new text. To return to the one-column format, you will need to select the text and choose 'One' from the 'Columns' menu.

Finally, remember that column formatting can affect other elements in your document, such as images, tables, and text boxes. Therefore, you may need to adjust these elements after applying the column format. Additionally, column formatting can make text harder to read on smaller devices like smartphones, so use it sparingly.

In summary, the columnar text function in Word is a powerful tool that can improve the layout and readability of your document. With just a few clicks, you can transform a simple document into a professional multi-column layout. However, it's important to understand how this function works and how it can affect other elements of your document to make the most of it.

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