How to Wrap Text Around Text in a Microsoft Word Document: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wrapping text around other text in a Microsoft Word document is a handy technique to make your document look professional and organized. In just a few simple clicks, you can align your text with images or other elements in your document, giving it a polished appearance. Here’s a quick overview of how to do it: First, insert the text you want to wrap around. Then, select the text, go to the ‘Layout’ tab, and choose the ‘Wrap Text’ option. From there, you can pick the wrapping style that suits your needs.

Step by Step Tutorial to Wrap Text Around Text in Microsoft Word

Before you start wrapping text around text, it’s important to know what you’re aiming for. Do you want your text to flow around an image? Or maybe you want it to curve around another block of text? Understanding the end goal will help you choose the right wrapping style and position your text correctly.

Step 1: Insert the text you want to wrap around

Insert the text box or shape that you want your main text to wrap around.

To insert a text box, go to the ‘Insert’ tab, click on ‘Text Box’, and choose a style. If it’s a shape you’re after, click on ‘Shapes’ and select the one you want. Position your text box or shape where you want the main text to wrap around it.

Step 2: Select the text or object

Click on the text box, shape, or image that you want your text to wrap around.

Once you’ve inserted your object, make sure it’s selected. You’ll know it’s selected when you see the outline and handles around it. If it’s not selected, just click on it.

Step 3: Go to the ‘Layout’ tab

Navigate to the ‘Layout’ or ‘Format’ tab on the Word ribbon.

The ‘Layout’ tab is where all the magic happens for text wrapping. If you’re using an older version of Word, it might be labeled as ‘Format’.

Step 4: Choose ‘Wrap Text’ option

In the ‘Arrange’ group, click on ‘Wrap Text’ and choose the wrapping style you prefer.

There are several wrapping styles to choose from, such as Square, Tight, Through, Top and Bottom, Behind Text, and In Front of Text. Hover over each option to get a preview of how it will look.

After you choose a wrapping style, your text will instantly wrap around the selected object in the style you’ve chosen. If you’re not happy with how it looks, just go back to the ‘Wrap Text’ option and try out a different style.

What happens after you complete the action

Once you wrap your text around another text, you’ll notice that your document looks more dynamic and visually appealing. Your readers’ eyes will flow smoothly from text to image and back, which can help keep their attention focused on your content.

Tips for Wrapping Text Around Text in Microsoft Word

  • Always experiment with different wrapping styles to see which one looks best with your content.
  • Use the ‘Position’ option under the ‘Wrap Text’ dropdown to fine-tune the placement of your text or object.
  • Make sure there’s enough contrast between the text and its background to maintain readability.
  • If the text doesn’t wrap the way you want, try adjusting the size of the text box or shape.
  • Remember that you can always undo your actions by pressing Ctrl + Z if you don’t like the changes you’ve made.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wrap text around text in a circle shape?

Yes, you can wrap text around a circular shape by inserting a circle from the ‘Shapes’ option and choosing a ‘Tight’ or ‘Through’ wrapping style.

What if I want to wrap text around an image?

The process is the same! Just insert your image and follow the steps above to wrap your text around it.

How do I move the text box or shape after wrapping text around it?

Click on the text box or shape to select it, and then drag it to the desired position. The text will adjust automatically.

Can I wrap text in a way that it forms a custom shape?

While Word doesn’t offer a direct way to do this, you can create a custom shape, add text to it, and then adjust the wrapping of surrounding text.

What do I do if the text isn’t wrapping as expected?

Make sure the text box or shape isn’t set to ‘In Line with Text’ as this will prevent wrapping. Choose another option like ‘Square’ or ‘Tight’ for better results.

Summary

  1. Insert the object you want to wrap text around.
  2. Select the object.
  3. Navigate to the ‘Layout’ tab.
  4. Choose your preferred wrapping style.

Conclusion

Wrapping text around text in a Microsoft Word document can seem intimidating at first, but it’s quite straightforward once you get the hang of it. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create engaging and visually appealing documents that draw your reader in. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different wrapping styles and positions to find what works best for your content.

And always keep your audience in mind—no matter how fancy your document looks, readability should always be your top priority. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch your Word documents transform from plain to professional in just a few clicks.

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