Introduction to MS Word

Introduction to MS Word

1.1 What is MS Word?

Microsoft Word, commonly known as MS Word, is word-processing software developed by Microsoft. It is used to create, edit, format, and print documents. MS Word is part of the Microsoft Office suite and is widely used in personal and professional settings.

1.2 Getting Started with MS Word

Opening MS Word

  1. Launch MS Word:

• Click on the Start menu or the search bar on your computer.
• Type “Word” and select the application to open it. (You have the option to select any installed version of Office, such as Office 365, 2016, or 2013.)

Figure 1. MS Word on the start menu

 

  2. Creating a New Document: 

• When MS Word opens, you’ll see the start screen. Click on “Blank Document” to create a new document.

Figure 2. File Tab

1.3 The MS Word Interface

Figure 3. MS Word Interface

  1. Title Bar:

• Displays the name of the document. By default, it’s named “Document1” until you save it with a different name.
• The title bar also has buttons to minimize, maximize/restore, and close the window.
• Additionally, it shows account information if you're signed in and offers Ribbon Display Options to show or hide the ribbon.

  2. Quick Access Toolbar

• The Quick Access Toolbar is a customizable toolbar located at the top-left corner of the MS Word window, next to the title bar.
• It provides quick access to frequently used commands, making it easier to perform common tasks efficiently.

Figure 4. Quick Access Toolbar

  3. Ribbon:

• A toolbar that contains multiple tabs (Home, Insert, Design, Layout, etc.) with various tools and options.

  4. Document Area:

• The main area where you type and format your text.

  5. Status Bar:

• Located at the bottom of the window, it shows information about your document, such as page number and word count, the language used, view buttons, and zoom in and out.

Figure 5. Zoom

To learn about tools not explained here, hover the mouse pointer over a tool to view the tooltip.

1.4 Saving Your Document

  1. Saving for the First Time:

• Click on “File” in the top-left corner of the window.
• Select “Save As” and choose a location to save your document.
• Enter a name for your document and click “Save”.

Figure 6. Saving Dialog Box

Figure 7. Select the location dialog box

  2. Saving Changes:

• After the initial save, click the “Save” button (floppy disk icon) on the Quick Access Toolbar or press Ctrl + S on your keyboard.

MS Word is a powerful tool for creating and managing documents. With its wide range of features, you can produce professional-quality documents with ease. The next tutorials will explore more advanced features and tips to enhance your productivity with MS Word.