Video:Microsoft Word Tables

Transcript:Microsoft Word Tables

Hi, I'm Isaac Brody for About.com Computing. Today I'll teach you how to create and utilize tables in Microsoft Word. Tables are useful tool for sorting information.

Start a Table

To create a new table go to 'Table' on the top bar and click on 'draw table.' This brings up the tables and borders box.

Table Options: Insert or Draw

On the left side of the tables bar, you have the option to draw or insert a table. Drawing a table allows you to use a pencil tool to outline text. I prefer to use the insert table feature because it allows you greater control over options.

Click on the insert table icon. You have several options to change, but I mainly change the column and row settings.

Word Table Columns and Rows

Column settings refer to the horizontal cells and row settings changes the vertical cells.

I'll insert 2 in the column, and 3 in the row setting and click, 'OK.'

Adjust Table Breaks in Word

You can adjust the table break, the space in between the cells, by holding your cursor over the table break and dragging it left or right. I'll drag this to the left to leave just enough space for a header name.

Sample Word Table

I'll start a resume and type a few header names in the left table box. I'll type 'EDUCATION,' 'EXPERIENCE,' and 'SKILLS.' I'll move the tables down by clicking on the top left corner of the table box and click holding the mouse and dragging down. Now I'll type 'Sample Resume' above the table. I will center it by clicking on this icon.

Previewing the Word Table

Now go to the print preview icon or go to file, 'print preview.' The table is noticeable in the print preview. I don't want it visible in my final sample resume. I'll close the print preview.

Table View Options

Right click on the left upper corner of the table to bring up options and click on borders and shading. Under setting I'll select none and click, 'OK.' Now when I go to File, Print Preview, my table box is invisible. I'll close the print preview.

Adjust the Word Table

If you scroll over the table and borders box you'll see other options for working with tables. By moving the mouse and holding it over icons the feature of the icon is revealed. Spend some time experimenting with these options to get familiar with the tools and to get the most out of working with tables.

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