Advanced Writing Techniques: Microsoft Word 2007 Page Layout
Before You Begin:
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Basics
Although Microsoft Word 2007 comes with pre-defined settings that are good for general circumstances, many of the techniques do not abide by technical writing standards. This quicknote will discuss how to set specific advanced settings for documents that are often required for technical writing standards.
Page Layout
Margins
Margins are used to provide any necessary gap along the edges of the paper. The margins can make it easier to make documents into pamphlets or booklets which need wider edges so staples/hole punches/paper clips do not interfere with the reading of the text; they can also be used to extend/shrink the amount of text visible on the page.
In order to setup a document for Multiple pages such as for a booklet:
- Click Custom Margins…
- Under the Pages section, next to Multiple Pages, click on the combo-box
- Click Book fold
Page Breaks
- At times it is necessary to add page breaks for figures, a table of contents, works cited, or bibliography. When this is needed, simply click on the Breaks button and select Page.
Paragraphs
By clicking on the pop-out icon in the Paragraph group of the Page Layout ribbon tab the following window will show:
Special Indentation
- (none)- New paragraphs are standard paragraphs; the first line is indented half an inch from the left margin.
- Hanging- Hanging paragraphs are used in Works Cited pages and Bibliographies; the first line starts at the left margin and the following lines are indented one-half an inch.
- First Line- Indents the first line of the paragraph.
Spacing
- With Microsoft Word 2007, a default setting for every document is that After, or in other words – spacing after every paragraph, is set to be 10 pt. This will add extra space that will interfere with advanced line spacing such as Single, Multiple, or Double.
Line Spacing
- Changes the line spacing for the highlighted portion of the document, or if nothing is selected, the entire document.