How to Add Columns in Word

Microsoft Word 2003 allows a user to divide the page into columns. Whether you are creating a newsletter or brochure document, you can create columns easily. When the bottom of one column has been reached, the cursor will move to the top of the next column for additional text. Columns can be created both before entering text and after text has already been inserted into the Word document. Here are simple tips to create columns without complications.

Instructions

Use the Drop Down Menu

1. 

   Click "Format" and "Columns" for a drop-down menu on a standard toolbar

2. 

   Select the number of columns by clicking on one of the preset buttons or by entering a number into the box.

3. 

   Adjust the width and spacing as necessary or use the default preset. Click "OK."

4. Preview the columns by clicking "File," then "Print Preview."

Use the Column Button

1. Select the text you want to place in columns by highlighting it with your mouse, or select all text if you want.

2. 

   Click the "Columns" button on the "Standard" toolbar as seen in this picture.

3. 

   Choose the number of columns for the document in the palette that opens, by dragging your mouse to the right over the columns.

4. Remove your finger from the mouse button and your text is now put in columns.

Tips & Warnings

• Open the Standard toolbar by clicking "View," then "Toolbars," then "Standard."

• To remove columns, highlight all the text, click the column button and select the single column button.