What Is the Difference Between MS Word Themes & Styles?

At first look it may seem that themes and styles in Microsoft Word serve the same function. Both features allow you to change colors, typefaces and style sets. The difference is that themes define the overall look of your document while styles offer different palette options that work with the main design.

Themes

Themes control the primary aspects of your document. Colors, typefaces, charts, tables, titles, shapes and diagrams are harmonized to give your document a smooth, professional appearance.

Styles

Styles (or Quick Styles) change variables within the theme to allow for personalization. You can alter the color and typeface combinations by selecting from available galleries that have been designed to complement the theme. While it is possible to customize a theme directly, styles allow you to make changes knowing that your selection will be well-matched and optimized for readability.

Conclusion

Imagine that themes are a well-tailored suit for your document. Styles are the various shirts and ties you can match with the suit to make it your own.

References

• Microsoft Office: All about themes, Quick Styles, cell styles, and background styles

Resources

• Microsoft Office: Word Support