Adding legal size paper to your Word document is a breeze once you know where to look. It’s all about adjusting your page setup. In just a few clicks, you can switch from the default letter size to legal, giving you more space to work with.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Add Legal Size in Word
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s set the stage. By following these steps, you’ll be changing the size of your document from the typical letter size to the longer legal size. This is perfect for legal documents, of course, but also handy for any situation where you need just a bit more room.
Step 1: Open the Page Layout Menu
Click on the ‘Layout’ or ‘Page Layout’ tab in the Word ribbon.
This tab is where you’ll find all sorts of options for adjusting the appearance of your document, including size.
Step 2: Select Size
In the Page Setup group, click on ‘Size.’
A drop-down menu will appear with a list of different page sizes.
Step 3: Choose Legal
Scroll down and select ‘Legal (8.5" x 14").’
And that’s it! Your document will now be set to legal size.
After you’ve selected legal size, your document will automatically adjust to fit the new dimensions. You might need to tweak your content a bit, but you’ll have more space to play with.
Tips for Adjusting to Legal Size in Word
- If you’re planning to print on legal size paper, make sure your printer settings are adjusted accordingly.
- Consider the margins of your document; you might want to adjust them to better fit the new page size.
- Remember that changing the page size can affect pagination, so check your page numbers and any headers or footers.
- If you’re working with a document that was created on letter size, be aware that shifting to legal may cause some reformatting issues.
- Save your document before changing the page size, just in case you need to revert to the original layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make legal size the default for all my Word documents?
Yes, you can set legal size as the default by modifying the Normal template or choosing legal size when you open a new document and then saving that as your default template.
Will changing the size to legal affect my document’s layout?
It might. Because legal size is longer than letter size, some content may shift. It’s a good idea to review your document after changing the size.
Can I use legal size for only part of my document?
Yes, you can apply different page sizes to different sections of your document by using section breaks.
How do I know if my printer can handle legal size paper?
Check your printer’s manual or settings. Most modern printers can print on legal size, but it’s always good to double-check.
What’s the difference between legal and letter size?
Legal size is 3 inches longer than letter size. Letter size is typically 8.5" x 11", while legal size is 8.5" x 14".
Summary
- Open the Page Layout Menu
- Select Size
- Choose Legal
Conclusion
So, there you have it—a quick and easy guide on how to add legal size in Word. By now, you should feel like a pro, ready to tackle any document that comes your way. Whether you’re prepping legal documents or just need a little extra space for your text, switching to legal size is a straightforward process that can make a big difference in the look and feel of your work. Remember to adjust your printer settings and check your layout after making the switch. Happy formatting!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.