Getting the ruler on Word 2013 is as simple as clicking on the “View” tab at the top of the Word window and then ticking the box next to “Ruler” in the Show group. Once you’ve done this, the ruler will appear at the top and to the left of your document, helping you to align text, graphics, and other elements within your file.
After completing this action, you’ll have a visible ruler that can assist you in various tasks such as setting margins, indenting text, and aligning objects. The ruler is a handy tool that enhances your precision and control over the layout of your document.
Introduction
Microsoft Word 2013 is an essential tool for anyone who works with documents, be it a student typing up an assignment, a business professional drafting a report or a writer weaving a story. One of the keys to creating a visually appealing and professional-looking document is to have precise control over your text and graphics. That’s where the ruler comes in handy. It might seem like a small feature, but the ruler is incredibly useful. It allows you to set margins, tabs, and other important layout elements that ensure your document looks just the way you want it to.
Knowing how to get the ruler on Word 2013 is crucial because it gives you more control over your document’s format and structure. It’s also a fundamental skill that every Word user should know. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started with Word, using the ruler can help you create documents that are both beautiful and functional. And the best part? It’s easy to do. Let’s dive in and learn how to bring up that ruler and take your documents to the next level!
Step by Step Tutorial: Getting the Ruler on Word 2013
The steps below will guide you through the process of displaying the ruler in Microsoft Word 2013.
Step 1: Open Word 2013
Launch Microsoft Word 2013 on your computer.
When you open Word 2013, you’ll typically start with a blank document or you can choose a template to begin your work. Make sure the document where you want to display the ruler is open before proceeding to the next steps.
Step 2: Click on the “View” Tab
Navigate to the “View” tab in the Word ribbon.
The “View” tab is located at the top of the Word window, among other tabs like “File”, “Home”, “Insert”, etc. Clicking on it will reveal various options that let you adjust how you view your document.
Step 3: Check the “Ruler” Box
In the Show group, find and tick the box next to “Ruler”.
In the “View” tab, look towards the right and find the “Show” group of commands. Here, you’ll see a checkbox labeled “Ruler”. Click on the box to place a tick mark in it, which will turn on the ruler for your document.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Precision | Having the ruler visible allows for more precise adjustments to margins, tabs, and other layout elements. |
| Improved Document Layout | Using the ruler can help in aligning text and graphics, leading to a more organized and professional-looking document. |
| Time-Saving | With the ruler, you can quickly make layout decisions without having to navigate through multiple menus. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Screen Space | Displaying the ruler takes up additional screen space, which might be a disadvantage on smaller screens. |
| Initial Learning Curve | For new users, understanding how to use the ruler effectively might take some time and practice. |
| Potential Distraction | Some users might find the presence of the ruler on the screen distracting, especially if they are not using it actively. |
Additional Information
While the steps above are straightforward, there are a few additional things to keep in mind when working with the ruler in Word 2013. First, the ruler is context-sensitive. This means that it adjusts based on what you’re doing. For example, if you’re working with tables, the ruler will show different markers than when you’re working with regular text.
Also, did you know that you can use the ruler to set tabs directly? Just click on the desired position on the ruler, and a tab stop will be created. Plus, you can adjust the type of tab (left, right, center, or decimal) by clicking on the tab selector at the left end of the horizontal ruler until the desired tab stop type is displayed.
Lastly, remember that the ruler is not just for horizontal measurements. The vertical ruler on the left side of your document can be invaluable for setting and maintaining consistent spacing between paragraphs and other objects.
Summary
- Open Word 2013
- Click on the “View” Tab
- Check the “Ruler” Box
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize the units of measurement on the ruler?
Yes, you can change the units of measurement by going to “File” > “Options” > “Advanced” and scrolling down to the “Display” section where you can select your preferred unit from the “Show measurements in units of” dropdown menu.
What if the ruler is not showing even after checking the box?
Make sure you’re in “Print Layout” view, as the ruler isn’t available in “Read Mode” or “Web Layout” view. You can switch views from the “View” tab.
Can I hide the ruler after turning it on?
Absolutely. To hide the ruler, simply uncheck the “Ruler” box in the “View” tab.
Is the ruler available in all versions of Word?
The ruler is available in most versions of Word, though the exact steps to enable it may vary slightly.
Can I use the ruler for vertical measurements?
Yes, there is a vertical ruler available that helps with top and bottom margins and spacing. It’s located on the left side of the document.
Conclusion
Mastering the ruler feature in Word 2013 can significantly improve your document’s layout, providing a level of precision and professionalism that sets your work apart. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or anyone who uses Word, taking the time to get familiar with the ruler is a small investment that can pay big dividends in the quality of your documents.
From setting tabs to aligning text, the ruler is a powerful tool in your Word toolkit. So go ahead, give it a try and watch how it transforms your document creation process.
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.