How to Write a Word-Processing Document With Style

By eHow Computers Editor

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Using word processing software on your computer makes writing easier and more efficient--you get a professional look and a built-in spell check. Choosing or creating a style sheet or template means you format your document from the start for a consistent look throughout. Follow the steps to learn how to write a word-processing document with style.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1
Use templates to create the look you want for your document. Load existing templates or make new ones to save for later use. Look for pre-existing letter, greeting card or report documents. Drop your information into the correct places and print.
Step2
Change the Page Setup (usually under the "File" option at the top of the screen). You decide the page size and margins depending on the size of paper you're printing onto or the type of document you're making.
Step3
Use headlines to break up your document into sections. Make your headlines bold, centered, with a larger font size than your normal text. Use headlines in reports, stories and articles to designate chapter or section beginnings.
Step4
Make paragraphs easier to read by breaking them up with space, font and alignment. Normal documents--reports, newsletters, novels, letters--often use left or justified alignment and a 12-point font that is not bold or italicized. Create emphasis or draw your attention to a certain paragraph by changing the norm.
Step5
Add a table of contents page, an index page, headers and footers, footnotes and endnotes to organize your document. Reports often require source citations and carefully noted information. Use word-processing styles to give you this organization.
Step6
Create page numbers with the click of your mouse. Most word processors have an option for adding page numbers--you can choose to number every page, leave the first page out of tabulation and use Roman numerals or spelled-out numerals instead of numbers for a more sophisticated look.

Tips & Warnings

  • Play around with various styles to find the right mix for your specific document.
  • Avoid using too many types of fonts, sizes, paragraph differences and organization options. If you make your document too cluttered with constant variations you lose the consistency you need.

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eHow Article: How to Write a Word-Processing Document With Style

eHow Computers Editor

eHow Computers Editor

Category: Computers

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