How to Insert and Customize Text Boxes in Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is a powerful tool for creating documents with various formatting options. One of the useful features is the ability to insert and customize text boxes. This article will guide you through inserting and customizing text boxes in different versions of Microsoft Word, including Microsoft Word for Microsoft 365, Word 2019, Word 2016, and Word 2013.

Step-by-Step Guide to Inserting a Text Box

Open your document in Microsoft Word.

Go to the Insert tab at the top of the screen.

Under the Text group, click on the Text Box option. Another box will pop up, allowing you to select a predefined text box or choose to Draw Text Box and create a custom-sized text box.

If you choose a predefined style, simply click on it, and it will be inserted into your document. Click and drag on the document to create a custom text box if you prefer.

Once inserted, you can type your text inside the text box. You can also resize or move the text box by clicking and dragging its edges or corners.

To further customize the text box, such as changing the color or outline, right-click on the text box and select Format Shape from the context menu. Alternatively, you can use the options in the Shape Format tab located in the ribbon.

Why Use Text Boxes in Microsoft Word?

Text boxes provide flexibility and control over how your text appears in a document. They are particularly useful for cues, sidebars, or blockquotes. This feature allows you to place your text anywhere within the document and format it with different colors, fonts, and styles.

Inserting Text Boxes in Microsoft Word Online

If you're using the Microsoft Word online version, you don't have direct access to the text box feature. However, you can use the following workaround:

Create your content in another application like Notepad or Paint.

Take a screenshot of the content and crop the relevant part.

Insert the screenshot as an image in the Word online document.

Note that this method does not allow for text editing within the image, but it works well for inserting custom text into your document.

Closing Thoughts

Text boxes are a valuable tool in Microsoft Word for adding visual interest and organization to your documents. Whether you're using the desktop version or the online version, you can take advantage of this versatile feature to enhance your documents.

Conclusion

This guide has shown you how to insert and customize text boxes in various versions of Microsoft Word. Whether you need to add a text box for a sidebar, a blockquote, or just to organize your document, text boxes are a useful and flexible tool. Give it a try and see how it can improve your document formatting and presentation.