Changing Column Width

Summary: Once you've divided your document into columns, you may need to change the width of each column. Word allows you to change each column's width independent of the others. This tip explains how to perform this task. (This tip works with Microsoft Word 97, Word 2000, Word 2002, and Word 2003.)

Once you add columns to your document, you may decide you want to adjust the width of the columns. Word allows you to quickly adjust the width of individual columns in your document, as well as the space between columns. You can change the width of columns in your document in the following manner:

Position the insertion pointer somewhere within the text that is already formatted for columns.
Choose the Columns option from the Format menu. Word displays the Columns dialog box. (Click here to see a related figure.)
Clear the Equal Column Width check box if you don't want your columns to be an equal width. (The Equal Column Width check box is only accessible if you set the Number of Columns control to some value other than 1.)
In the Width and Spacing area of the dialog box, adjust the width and spacing (the space between columns) for each column to reflect your desired page appearance. As you adjust one number, other columns and widths may be adjusted automatically. All these numbers are inter-related.
Click on OK.

Tip #983 applies to Microsoft Word versions: 97 | 2000 | 2002 | 2003

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