Formatting Tables: Word - how it works

Tables created in Microsoft Word can be formatted using the Table tool. Word provides a whole set of pre-made style sheets from which you can choose. You also have the option to customize the templates to your needs using the options. Learn how to format tables in your Word document here.

How to format tables in Word

You can customize a table created in Word using the style sheets. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Start Word and open the file containing a table you want to format.
2. Left-click in the table to select it.
3. Switch to the "Draft" tab, there you will find the table format templates and other options.
4. When you move the mouse over the various templates, the table will be displayed as a preview with the appropriate format.
5. Once you have decided on a format, simply click on it. Word will then automatically format the table according to the template.

Using the Table Tools Layout tab, you have the option to further customize the formt of your table and change details.

Create your own table format template

Alternatively to the table format templates provided by Word, you also have the option to create your own templates.

1. Click with the left mouse button in a table to call up the table tools and switch to the "Draft" tab.
2. Click on the "More" arrow in the table format templates and select the "New table format template" option in the menu.
3. A new window will then open where you can adjust the settings for your template.
4. Click "Ok" to save the style.