Converting a Text Box to a Frame

Summary: These days, most people using Word know what text boxes are but have no idea about frames. Yet, for some purposes, frames are a better choice. This tip focuses on how to convert an existing text box into a frame. (This tip works with Microsoft Word 97, Word 2000, Word 2002, Word 2003, and Word 2007.)

All versions of Word support frames, but not all of them support text boxes. There may be times when you want to convert a text box to a frame. For instance, you might be preparing your document to be used on an older version of Word. To make the conversion, follow these steps:

Right-click on the text box. Word displays a Context menu.
Choose the Format Text Box from the Context menu. Word displays the Format Text Box dialog box.
Click on the Text Box tab. (Click here to see a related figure.)
Click on Convert to Frame. You see a dialog box informing you that some features of your text box may be lost in the conversion.
Click on OK.

Tip #1823 applies to Microsoft Word versions: 97 | 2000 | 2002 | 2003 | 2007

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