How to only have header on first page in Word: A Step-by-Step Guide

Do you need to create a document in Word with a header that only appears on the first page? It’s a common need for reports, essays, or any document where you want a clean look after the title page. In just a few clicks, you can set up your Word document to have a header only on the first page and not on the subsequent pages. Let’s dive into how to make this happen.

Step by Step Tutorial: How to Only Have Header on First Page in Word

Before we jump into the steps, it’s important to note that this tutorial will help you create a professional-looking document by having a header only on the first page. This is especially useful for formal documents like letters, reports, or resumes.

Step 1: Open the Header

Double-click on the top of the first page to open the header.

When you double-click on the top of the first page, the header section will become editable. You’ll also see the Header & Footer Tools Design tab appear on the Ribbon.

Step 2: Check the "Different First Page" Box

In the Header & Footer Tools Design tab, check the "Different First Page" option.

By checking this box, you’re telling Word that you want the first page’s header to be different from the rest of the document. This allows you to have a unique header or no header at all on the following pages.

Step 3: Edit the Header as Desired

Customize the header on the first page to your liking.

Now that you’ve set up a different header for the first page, you can add your text, images, or logos. This will not affect the headers on the other pages.

Step 4: Close the Header

Click "Close Header and Footer" in the Header & Footer Tools Design tab or double-click outside the header area to exit.

Once you’re done editing, you can close the header. Your settings will be saved, and you’ll see the header only on the first page of your Word document.

After completing these steps, your document will have a header only on the first page. This setting will remain consistent throughout the document, even if you add or delete pages.

Tips: How to Only Have Header on First Page in Word

• Always double-check the "Different First Page" option to make sure it’s selected.
• If you’re working with an existing document, make sure to remove any headers on subsequent pages after applying this setting.
• Remember that you can still have a footer on all pages, even if the header is only on the first page.
• If you want a different header on the second page, simply edit it after completing the steps above—it won’t affect the first page.
• Use the "Print Preview" feature to see how your document will look before printing or sharing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have a different header on the second page?

Yes, after setting up a different first page, you can edit the header on the second page without affecting the first.

Will the header reappear if I add more pages to my document?

No, the header will only appear on the first page, regardless of how many pages you add.

Can I use this feature for footers as well?

Yes, there is also a "Different First Page" option for footers, which works the same way.

What versions of Word does this work for?

This feature is available in most recent versions of Microsoft Word.

Can I have a different header on odd and even pages?

Yes, in the Header & Footer Tools Design tab, you can also select "Different Odd & Even Pages" for more customization.

Summary

1. Open the header on the first page.
2. Check the "Different First Page" option.
3. Edit the header on the first page.
4. Close the header.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of creating a document where the header only appears on the first page can make a huge difference in the presentation of your work. Not only does it give your document a clean and professional look, but it also helps to distinguish the title page from the rest of the content. By following the above steps, you can easily set up your headers in Microsoft Word to meet your needs. Whether you’re drafting a business report, crafting a resume, or putting together a research paper, knowing how to only have a header on the first page in Word is a valuable skill. So, go ahead and give it a try—your documents will thank you for that extra touch of professionalism.