Word Tips and Tricks

Learn helpful tips and shortcuts to create more professional-looking documents in Microsoft Word.

Introduction

• Explore lesser-known features in Microsoft Word

1. Application and Document Defaults

• Use the new interface
• Disable the Start screen (Windows)
• Disable the Start screen (Mac)
• Set Dark Mode (Windows)
• Set Dark Mode (Mac)
• Set default font for new documents
• Share and coauthor documents online

2. Adding and Formatting Text

• Use automatic text replacement
• Insert placeholder text
• Work with website links
• Select text more effectively
• Maintain format during copy and paste
• Use the Drop Cap effect

3. Spelling and Proofing Tools

• Set the custom spell check dictionary (Windows)
• Set the custom spell check dictionary (Mac)
• Set the spell check language or disable spell check

4. Useful Tools

• Show nonprinting characters
• Word and character count
• Compress pictures to decrease file size
• Cite your sources with Researcher
• Get help writing a resume from the Resume Assistant
• Lock a document to restrict editing

Conclusion

• Learn more about Microsoft Word