Outlining a font in Word 2013 is a simple process that can add a professional touch to your document. It involves selecting the text you want to outline, navigating to the ‘Text Effects’ options, and choosing the outline style and color you prefer.
After you outline your font, it will have a visible border around each letter, which can make the text stand out on the page.
Introduction
Outlining fonts can seem like a small detail, but it’s the little things that often make a document feel more polished and professional. Whether you’re creating a poster, a flyer, or simply want to add emphasis to a section of text in a report, outlining your fonts can be the way to go. That’s why knowing how to outline font in Word 2013 could come in handy more often than you think.
This skill is particularly relevant for professionals in fields such as graphic design, marketing, or any job that involves creating visually appealing documents. However, even for the casual Word user, learning how to outline font can be a valuable addition to your formatting toolkit. Plus, it’s a simple and quick process that can be mastered in no time – a little effort for a big impact!
How to Outline Font in Word 2013 Tutorial
The following steps will guide you through outlining a font in Word 2013.
Step 1: Select the Text
Select the text you want to apply the outline effect to.
After highlighting the text, ensure that no other formatting options are selected that might conflict with the outline effect.
Step 2: Open the Font Dialog Box
Right-click on the selected text and choose ‘Font’ from the context menu to open the Font dialog box.
The Font dialog box is where you can find various text formatting options, including effects that can be applied to your selected text.
Step 3: Navigate to Text Effects
In the Font dialog box, go to the ‘Text Effects’ button.
The ‘Text Effects’ button might be small, but it’s the gateway to a variety of text customization options, including outlines, glow, shadow, and more.
Step 4: Choose Outline Options
Within the Text Effects menu, select ‘Outline’ and choose your preferred outline style and color.
Take your time to experiment with different styles and colors to find the combination that best fits the aesthetic of your document.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Readability | Outlining font can make text stand out, increasing its readability on different backgrounds. |
| Customization | You have the freedom to choose from a variety of colors and styles to match the theme of your document. |
| Professional Appearance | An outlined font can add a touch of professionalism to your document, making it look more polished. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Potential Overuse | Overusing font outlines can make a document look cluttered and reduce readability. |
| Limited Fonts | Not all fonts look good when outlined, limiting your options. |
| Possible Distraction | If not used appropriately, outlined fonts can distract from the main content of the document. |
Additional Information
When outlining fonts in Word 2013, it’s important to consider the context in which the text will be read. Outlined text often works best for headings or titles rather than body text. It’s also worth noting that when printing documents with outlined text, it’s essential to ensure your printer can handle the detail, especially if you’re using a thin outline.
Additionally, outlined fonts might not always translate well in digital formats, especially on smaller screens or devices with lower resolutions. Always preview your document on different platforms to ensure the outline effect is visible and effective.
Remember, less is more. Use outlining sparingly to avoid overwhelming your readers. The goal is to enhance your document, not to distract from the content.
Summary
- Select the text you want to outline.
- Open the Font dialog box by right-clicking the selected text.
- Navigate to Text Effects.
- Choose your outline options from the styles and colors available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply an outline to any font?
Most fonts support the outline effect, but some might not display it as well as others.
Will outlining a font change the text’s color?
Outlining a font adds a border around the text but does not change the fill color unless you choose to do so.
Can I apply other text effects along with the outline?
Yes, you can combine the outline with other text effects like shadow or glow for a more dynamic look.
Is it possible to outline only part of the text?
Absolutely, you can outline specific sections of your text by selecting only the parts you want to modify.
Can outlined text be printed?
Yes, outlined text can be printed, but make sure your printer’s resolution is high enough to accurately reproduce the effect.
Conclusion
Outlining font in Word 2013 is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your document. By following the steps outlined in this article, you will be able to add a professional touch to your text, whether you’re designing a poster or simply looking to emphasize key points in a report.
Remember, while outlined fonts can be a powerful tool, they should be used judiciously to maintain the readability and aesthetic balance of your document. Keep experimenting with different styles and colors to discover how outlining fonts can elevate the quality of your work in Word 2013.
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.