How to Change Window Text in Windows XP

Windows XP offers users an incredible amount of flexibility when it comes to the appearance of the Graphical User Interface (GUI). You can change the layout of the taskbar and add, move or remove icons from the desktop. You can even change the wallpaper and color schemes. One of the most overlooked features of Windows XP customization is the ability to change the appearance of the window text.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows XP
• Additional fonts

Alter Windows XP Window Text

1. Click the Start menu and choose the "Control Panel" menu option.

2. Click on the "Display" icon in the window. If you see the standard Windows XP window, that doesn't show the "Display" icon, consider pressing the "Switch to Classic View" link. This makes each different control-panel feature appear independently in the window.

3. Click on the "Appearance" tab along the menu bar.

4. Click on the point within the graphic window that has text you would like to change. Clicking on the background or on the button representations will not allow you to change the text.

5. Click on the drop-down menu within the interface window to browse a list of available fonts. They are not represented graphically within the list. To see what one looks like, select it and it will appear in the graphic window.

6. Change the size and color of the font using the "Font Size" and "Font Color" drop-down menus. Changes will be displayed in real time in the graphic window.

7. Click the "Apply" button when you are satisfied with the changes.

8. Wait while Windows makes the changes. The screen will turn black and white for a moment, while the changes are processed.

9. Save your current theme in Windows by returning to the Display Properties window and selecting the "Save As..." button in the themes tab.

Tips & Warnings

• Download a theme manager program that helps manage your theme choices. Theme managers make it easier to adjust the interface to your own tastes, as well as to save your designs for future use.
• Turn on font smoothing to clean the appearance of fonts and smooth edges. This will help make some fonts appear more natural and less computer generated.
• Avoid changing your window text to a font that is too big or too small for your display settings. Fonts that are inappropriately sized can appear blurry or disproportionate to the windows.

Resources

• Core windows tasks at Microsoft.com
• Windows display properties overview on the Microsoft website