8 Expert Microsoft Word Tips and Tricks to Boost Your Productivity

Boost your efficiency in Microsoft Word, the gold standard word processor used by millions worldwide. Pre-installed on Windows, with a free web version, it's packed with powerful features. Drawing from years of professional experience, here are 8 essential tips to streamline your workflow.

Contents

1. How to delete a page in Microsoft Word
2. How to double space in Microsoft Word
3. How to add page numbers in Microsoft Word
4. How to remove a section break in Microsoft Word
5. How to insert a line in Microsoft Word
6. How to create a Table of Contents in Microsoft Word
7. How to change the default font in Microsoft Word
8. How to duplicate a page in Microsoft Word

While competitors have advanced, Word's depth sets it apart—though its interface can overwhelm. These pro tips, refined over extensive use, will help you navigate faster.

Let's dive in.

1. How to Delete a Page in Microsoft Word

To delete a blank page, place your cursor at the top and press Backspace. Create new pages anytime with Ctrl+Enter.

For pages with content, select all (Shift+click from start to end, or Ctrl+A for the whole document), then hit Delete. This removes both content and the page.

To eliminate stubborn end-of-document paragraphs before printing or PDF export, enable formatting marks (Ctrl+Shift+8) and delete them.

2. How to Double Space in Microsoft Word

Go to the Design tab, click Paragraph Spacing, and select Double from the Built-In options.

This applies double spacing throughout. For specific sections, highlight first.

Keyboard shortcut: Alt+G (Design), then Alt+PS. Use arrows to navigate.

3. How to Add Page Numbers in Microsoft Word

Select Insert > Page Number to choose placement (e.g., bottom center).

Numbers appear instantly at your chosen spot.

Shortcut: Alt+N (Insert), Alt+NU. Start from page 2 via Format Page Numbers.

4. How to Remove a Section Break in Microsoft Word

To delete a section break, first show hidden formatting: Home tab > ¶ (or Ctrl+Shift+8). Locate the "Section Break" line, place cursor just before it, and press Delete. Shortcut for Breaks menu: Alt+P+B (but use for verification).

Undo with Ctrl+Z if needed. This merges sections seamlessly.

5. How to Insert a Line in Microsoft Word

For quick lines, type three characters on a new line—no spaces—then Enter: --- (dashed), === (double), ___ (wavy), etc. Auto-formatting creates full-width lines.

Alternatively, Insert > Shapes > Lines. Shortcut: Alt+N+SH.

6. How to Create a Table of Contents in Microsoft Word

Under References, click Table of Contents—but first apply Heading styles (Home tab) to your sections.

The TOC auto-generates clickable links for easy navigation.

7. How to Change the Default Font in Microsoft Word

Fonts shape perception—romantic cursive or bold gothic changes everything. Select text, pick from Home > Font dropdown.

For default: Ctrl+D (Font dialog), choose font, Set As Default, save for new docs.

8. How to Duplicate a Page in Microsoft Word

Insert a blank page: Insert > Pages > Blank Page.

Select source page content (mouse or Shift+click), Ctrl+C to copy, switch to blank page, Ctrl+V to paste. No direct duplicate button—yet.

Words Are Sharper Than the Edge of a Sword

Words, once released, are irreversible. Master these Microsoft Word tips to work faster and smarter. What's your go-to shortcut? Share in the comments.

A collection of simple yet powerful Microsoft Word tips to skyrocket productivity.