How to Add Shading to Microsoft Word Tables

You can add dimension and ease of use to tables by adding shading (gray or color) to individual columns, rows, cells or the entire table. These instructions are for Microsoft Word 97 or 98.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Microsoft Word

1. Select the part of the table you want to shade: column, row, cell or entire table.

2. Go to the Format menu and select Borders and Shading. The Borders and Shading window will open.

3. Select the Shading tab at the top of the window.

4. Select the fill color you want to use to shade this part of the table. Your selection is reflected in the Preview box on the right side of the window.

5. In the Patterns section, select the percentage you want of the color you selected (for example, 10 percent gray).

6. Click OK.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use the Tables and Borders toolbar to add shading to tables.
• Shading is a good way to highlight a Totals column.