Sometimes, using columns makes your document easier to read. Columns are often used in newspapers, newsletters, and flyers. Microsoft Word allows you to add and adjust columns easily.

Adding Columns

To add columns to your document:

  1. Select the text you want to format.


  2. Click the Layout tab.

  3. Click the Columns button. A menu will appear.

  4. Select the number of columns you want.

Your text will now appear in columns. If you need more options, click More Columns at the bottom of the menu. This opens the Columns dialog box. You can choose the number of columns and adjust spacing.


Adjusting Column Width

You can change the column width and spacing. Use the Ruler at the top of the document. Click and drag the indent markers to adjust the columns.


Removing Columns

To remove columns:

  1. Click anywhere inside the columns.

  2. Click the Layout tab.
  3. Click the Columns button.
  4. Select One from the menu.

Your text will return to a single-column format.

Adding a Column Break

Column breaks help you control where a column starts. To add a column break:

  1. Place the cursor where you want the new column to start.

  2. Click the Layout tab.
  3. Click Breaks in the menu.

  4. Select Column from the list.

The text after the break will move to the next column.

Removing a Column Break

By default, column breaks are hidden. To remove them:

  1. Click the Show/Hide button on the Home tab. This will display hidden breaks.

  2. Place the cursor to the left of the break.

  3. Press the Delete key.

Now you can easily add, adjust, and remove columns in Microsoft Word.