Pictures and Text Wrapping in Microsoft Word 2016

Adding pictures in your Word document makes it more attractive and easier to understand. Pictures can explain ideas visually, break up long text, and make your document look professional. Microsoft Word 2016 makes it simple to insert, resize, and wrap text around images.

Inserting a Picture from Your Computer

If you already have an image saved on your device, you can easily insert it into Word. Here’s how:

• Place your cursor where you want the image to appear.
• Go to the Insert tab on the Ribbon.
• Click on Pictures.
• Browse your folders to find the image you want to use.
• Select the picture and click Insert.

The image will now appear in your document exactly where you placed the cursor.

Resizing a Picture

After inserting a picture, you might need to adjust its size. To resize:

• Click on the image to select it.
• Drag the corner handles to make it bigger or smaller. This keeps the picture’s proportions the same.
• If you drag the side handles, the image may stretch or look squished.

Understanding Text Wrapping

When you insert an image, it usually appears “In Line with Text.” This means it behaves like a text character, which can limit how you position it. To move it freely or wrap text around it, you need to change the text wrapping style.

How to Wrap Text Around an Image

• Click the image. The Picture Tools – Format tab will appear.
• Go to the Wrap Text option in the Arrange group.
• Select a wrapping style that fits your layout.

Here are the main text wrapping options:

• In Line with Text: The image acts as part of the text line.
• Square: The text forms a box shape around the picture.
• Tight: Text wraps closely around the image’s edges.
• Through: Text flows through transparent parts of the image.
• Top and Bottom: Text appears above and below the image only.
• Behind Text: The image stays behind the text.
• In Front of Text: The image sits over the text, covering it.

Using Predefined Text Wrapping Styles

Predefined text wrapping styles automatically place the image in common positions, such as left, right, or center. These layouts help your page look neat and balanced. The text will automatically adjust around your image for better readability.

Inserting Online Pictures

If you don’t have a suitable image on your computer, Word 2016 allows you to find pictures online.

There are two main sources for online pictures:

• OneDrive: Use images from your cloud storage or linked accounts like Facebook and Flickr.
• Bing Image Search: Search for images online. Always check usage rights before using them.

Steps to Insert an Online Picture

• Place your cursor where you want the image.
• Go to the Insert tab.
• Click Online Pictures.
• Choose Bing Image Search or OneDrive.
• Type your search term and press Enter.
• Select a picture and click Insert.

Your selected online image will appear in your document, ready for resizing or text wrapping.

Fine-Tuning Layout Options

For wrapping styles like Square or Tight, you can adjust the space between text and the picture:

• Right-click the image and select Format Picture.
• Go to the Layout tab.
• Change the distance between text and picture for a cleaner layout.

5 FAQs of Pictures and Text Wrapping in Microsoft Word 2016

1. How do I move a picture freely in Word 2016?

Change the text wrapping style to “In Front of Text” or “Square.” This lets you drag the picture anywhere on the page.

2. What is the best wrapping style for a paragraph image?

The “Square” or “Tight” wrapping style usually works best because it allows text to flow neatly around the image.

3. Can I use online images in Word?

Yes, you can insert images from OneDrive or Bing Image Search. But always check copyright and usage rights first.

4. How do I prevent my image from covering text?

Avoid using “In Front of Text.” Instead, use “Square,” “Tight,” or “Top and Bottom” to keep the text visible.

5. Can I set the default text wrapping style?

Yes. Right-click your picture, select Set as Default Layout, and Word will remember your choice for future images.

Conclusion

Pictures bring life and meaning to your documents. In Microsoft Word 2016, inserting and wrapping text around pictures is quick and simple once you know the steps. Try different wrapping styles, experiment with layouts, and you’ll soon create visually appealing documents that stand out.