Creating two columns in Word is a handy way to organize your text and give your document a polished, professional look. Whether you’re working on a newsletter, a brochure, or just want to change up the format of your essay, adding columns is a simple process. Let’s dive into how to make two columns in Word.
Step by Step Tutorial: Making Two Columns in Word
Before we begin, it’s important to note that creating columns in Word will divide your existing text into two separate sections. This can be a great way to improve readability or fit more content onto a page.
Step 1: Open the Layout Tab
Click on the ‘Layout’ tab in the Word ribbon at the top of your screen.
This tab contains various options for adjusting the page setup of your document, including margins, orientation, and columns.
Step 2: Select Columns
Click on the ‘Columns’ button, then choose ‘Two’ from the dropdown menu.
You’ll see your text instantly reformat into two columns. If you’re starting a new document, the columns will be applied as you type.
Step 3: Customize Column Width and Spacing (Optional)
If you want more control over your columns, select ‘More Columns…’ to customize their width and the spacing between them.
This is where you can get creative. You can make one column wider than the other or adjust the spacing to suit the design of your document.
Step 4: Apply to Whole Document or Section
Decide whether you want the columns to apply to the whole document or just a specific section, then click ‘OK’.
If you only want columns in a part of your document, make sure to highlight that section before following these steps.
After completing these steps, your document will have a fresh, new layout with two columns. This can help guide your reader’s eyes through the text more smoothly and can break up long stretches of text.
Tips for Making Two Columns in Word
- If you want to add a line between your columns, check the ‘Line between’ box in the ‘More Columns…’ menu.
- To return to a single-column layout, simply go back to the ‘Columns’ button and select ‘One’.
- Remember to save your document after making changes to avoid losing your work.
- Consider the length of your text; shorter paragraphs tend to work better in a column layout.
- Use section breaks if you want to switch between different column layouts in the same document.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add a title above my two columns?
Simply add your title before creating the columns, and it will stay above the text as a single block.
Can I have more than two columns in Word?
Absolutely! You can create up to three columns using the standard options, or customize to add more.
What if I want different-sized columns?
Use the ‘More Columns…’ option to adjust the width of each column manually.
How do I move text from one column to another?
Usually, text flows automatically from one column to the next. If you need to move text manually, cut and paste it where you want it.
Can I insert a column break in Word?
Yes, place your cursor where you want the new column to start, and under the ‘Layout’ tab, click on ‘Breaks’ and then ‘Column Break’.
Summary
- Open the ‘Layout’ tab
- Click on ‘Columns’ and select ‘Two’
- Customize your columns if desired
- Apply to your entire document or a section
Conclusion
Making two columns in Word is a breeze once you know where to look. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can transform your document into a beautifully formatted piece that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re creating a newsletter, a flyer, or just organizing your essay, columns are a great way to add structure and style to your work. Keep in mind the additional tips to fine-tune your layout and answer any questions that might arise during the process. Remember, with Word, the possibilities for customization are vast, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different column configurations to suit your needs. Happy formatting!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.