To make the font size bigger than 72 in Word 2013, simply highlight the text you want to enlarge, click on the font size box in the toolbar, and type in the desired size. Press enter, and voila, your text is now larger than the default maximum size.
Once you’ve completed this action, your selected text will be displayed in the new, larger font size that you’ve specified. This can be particularly useful for creating headings, titles, or any text that you want to stand out on the page.
Introduction
Have you ever been working on a document in Word 2013 and found yourself wishing you could make your headings stand out a bit more? Maybe you’ve tried to increase the font size, only to find that the maximum size you can select from the dropdown menu is 72 points. Fret not, my fellow Word warriors, for I come bearing good news!
The truth is, Word 2013 does allow you to make your font size bigger than 72, but the option to do so isn’t immediately obvious. This little trick can be a game-changer for anyone looking to create more visually impactful documents, whether you’re a student wanting to emphasize a section title in an essay, a business professional creating a presentation, or a designer working on a layout. Understanding how to adjust the font size beyond the default limitations is a simple yet powerful skill that can help make your documents stand out.
Step by Step Tutorial: Increasing Font Size Beyond 72 in Word 2013
Before diving into the steps, it’s worth noting that the following guide will help you enhance the appearance of your text by making it larger than the default maximum size in Microsoft Word 2013.
Step 1: Highlight the text
Start by highlighting the text you wish to enlarge.
Once you’ve highlighted the text, you’re ready to proceed to the next step. It’s important to ensure that only the text you want to change is highlighted, as any changes you make will apply to all highlighted text.
Step 2: Open the font size box
Click on the font size box in the toolbar.
The font size box is typically located in the “Font” group of the “Home” tab on the ribbon. It’s the box that shows the current size of your selected text.
Step 3: Enter the desired font size
Type in the desired font size, then press enter.
You’re not restricted to the sizes listed in the dropdown menu. You can type in any number to make your text as large as you need. After pressing enter, the text will immediately reflect the new size.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Increased Visibility | By enlarging the font size, your text becomes more visible, which is great for titles or headings that need to stand out. |
| Customization | You have more control over the look of your document, allowing you to customize your work to better match your style or the requirements of the project. |
| Accessibility | Larger text is easier to read, which makes your document more accessible to individuals with visual impairments. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Distraction | An excessively large font can be distracting and may take away from the overall readability of the document. |
| Space Consumption | Larger font sizes consume more page space, which could be an issue for documents with length restrictions. |
| Printer Considerations | If you’re planning to print the document, a very large font could lead to increased paper and ink usage. |
Additional Information
When working with larger font sizes in Word 2013, it’s important to consider the context in which your document will be used. For digital documents, like PDFs or online publications, the sky’s the limit—you can go as big as you like without worrying about paper size. However, for print documents, you’ll need to be mindful of the dimensions of your paper.
Additionally, using larger font sizes can be a powerful tool when you want to emphasize certain parts of your text, but be careful not to overuse it. The key is to find a balance that enhances your document’s readability and aesthetic appeal. Keep in mind that while Word 2013 allows for font sizes as large as 1638 points, such sizes are rarely practical. It’s also worth noting that different fonts may look better at different sizes, so don’t be afraid to experiment with various typefaces.
Another tip is to consider pairing large text with other formatting options, like bolding or italicizing, to add even more emphasis. Also, don’t forget about color! Changing the color of your larger text can also serve to draw the reader’s attention.
Summary
- Highlight the text.
- Click on the font size box.
- Type in the desired font size and press enter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the font size bigger than 1638 in Word 2013?
No, 1638 points is the maximum font size you can set in Word 2013.
Will changing the font size affect the layout of my document?
Potentially, yes. Larger font sizes will take up more space, so you may need to adjust other elements of your layout accordingly.
Can I use this method to make the font size bigger in other versions of Word?
Yes, this method generally works in other versions of Microsoft Word, though the interface may look slightly different.
Does this work for all fonts?
Yes, you can make any font bigger using this method, but keep in mind that some fonts may not look as good at extremely large sizes.
Can I set a default font size larger than 72?
You can’t set a default font size larger than 72 from the dropdown menu, but you can save a template with a larger font size preset.
Conclusion
Making the font size bigger than 72 in Word 2013 is a neat trick that can enhance the visual impact of your document. Whether you’re aiming to make a statement with a bold title or simply want to improve readability, the ability to customize your font size beyond the default settings opens up a world of possibilities.
Remember, while bigger text can be a powerful tool, it’s all about balance and appropriateness for your particular document. So go ahead, play around with those font sizes, and make your words truly jump off the page!
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.