This tutorial shows how to insert text boxes in Microsoft Word. We will also look at how to change the text box color, border, and font style.
Text boxes let you emphasize important information by visually separating it from the main content.
Table of Contents:
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These steps apply to Word for Microsoft 365, Word 2021, Word 2019, Word 2016, and Word 2013. We will cover this topic in Word for Mac in a separate tutorial.
How to Insert a Text Box
- Place your cursor where you want to insert the text box. (This can be an approximate placement. The text box can be moved later.)
- Select the Insert tab in the ribbon.
- Select the Text Box button.
- Select a built-in (premade) design from the menu. The first option creates a basic text box.
Pro Tip: Select Draw Text Box if you prefer to click and drag an empty text box on to the page rather than inserting one of the built-in designs.
- Type your text over the filler text.
- Use the resizing handles to adjust the size of the box.
- To move the text box freely around the page, select the Layout Options button and then choose any of the Text Wrapping options. Square will be the best option for most situations.
You can now move the text box around the page.
How to Change the Text Box Color, Border, and Font Style
- Select the text box. (The resizing handles are visible when the text box is selected.)
- Select the Shape Format tab in the ribbon. (This tab only appears when a text box or shape is selected.)
- Select a style from the Quick Styles menu or select options from the Shape Fill (which includes an option to insert a background picture), Shape Outline, or Shape Effects in the Shape Styles group.
- Select a style from the WordArt Quick Styles menu or select options from the Text Fill, Text Outline, or Text Effects menus to change the appearance of the text.
- To further customize the text, select it, select the Home tab in the ribbon, and then choose additional options from the Font group, such as a new font style or size.
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