MS Word is a computer application that functions like a digital sheet of paper, allowing you to perform tasks such as writing stories, letters, and resumes. The screen features a plain white space for typing and a text cursor that shows where you are currently working.
Creating and Saving Documents
- To create a file: Find the MS Word application, select ‘New’ from the left menu, and double-click on ‘Blank Document’.
- To save a file: Click the floppy disk icon at the top left or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + S. You should choose a specific location on your computer and give the file a clear name so it is easy to find later.
Formatting and the Menu Bar
The Menu Bar at the top of the screen contains tabs with features to change the appearance of your document.
- Home Tab: This tab allows you to change the font style, size, and colour. You can also create numbered or bulleted lists here.
- Formatting Rules: For professional documents, it is recommended to use black text, a font size of 12, and left-aligned paragraphs.
- Text Styles: You can make text Bold (Ctrl + B), Italics (Ctrl + I), or Underlined (Ctrl + U).
Managing Text with Keyboard Shortcuts
Shortcuts allow you to perform actions quickly without navigating menus:
- Copy (Ctrl + C): Duplicates the selected text so it remains in the original place and is also placed elsewhere.
- Cut (Ctrl + X): Deletes the text from its original location to move it elsewhere.
- Paste (Ctrl + V): Places the copied or cut text into a new chosen location.
- Undo (Ctrl + Z): Reverses your last action, allowing you to get back an earlier version of your work if you make a mistake.
Page Layout and Printing
The ‘Page Layout’ tab is used to set the type of page for your document. You can choose between Portrait (vertical), which is standard for official documents, or Landscape (horizontal). To get a physical copy of your work, you can select ‘Print’ from the ‘File’ menu or use the shortcut Ctrl + P. Before printing, you can preview each page to ensure the layout is correct.