How to Write Urdu in MS Word

Installing fonts into MS Word is a critical word-processing skill, especially when dealing with writing in other languages. Urdu is available via many fonts online, and with proper installation can be easily used in Word.

Instructions

1. Navigate the site of the BBC's Urdu font (see Resources), which has been designed for maximum compatibility. Select "I agree to the Terms and Conditions" at the bottom of the page, and click "Download font."

2. Choose "Save file as" from the pop-up menu. When prompted, set the file location as C:\Windows\Fonts\, or whichever folder is used on your computer to store its fonts. If you are running Firefox, the file will automatically save itself to your desktop or download directory. In this case, you need to cut and paste the file manually into your fonts directory.

3. Choose "Yes" or "Allow" if you are prompted by your security software when saving or moving the font into the proper directory. Double-check that you have successfully moved the font, named "Urdu Naskh Asiatype," into the proper folder. Exit the directory and load Microsoft Word.

4. Select "Urdu Naskh Asiatype" from the font drop-down menu. You are now able to type in Urdu using MS Word. If you are unfamiliar with the key layout for Urdu, load the virtual, on-screen keyboard by selecting "Control Panel" from the "Start" menu, choosing "Ease of Access," and selecting "Start on-screen keyboard."

Tips & Warnings

• If the on-screen keyboard is difficult to use, Urdu keyboard stickers are available for purchase from most major keyboard outlets.

Resources

• The BBC's Urdu character-set