To use small caps in Word 2013, you will need to highlight the text you want to change, go to the ‘Font’ dialog box, and choose ‘Small caps’. The result will be a stylish and professional-looking text that stands out.
After you complete the action, your selected text will appear in smaller capital letters compared to the normal text, giving it a distinct and polished look.
Introduction
Ever wondered how some documents have that sophisticated and polished look? Part of that professional vibe may come from a formatting style called small caps. Small caps are a typographic feature where lowercase letters appear as smaller versions of capital letters. This style is commonly used in legal documents, book titles, or any other formal writing where emphasis is needed without the use of bold or italics. It’s a subtle way to make a statement and draw attention to specific text without overwhelming the reader.
If you’re using Word 2013, you’re in luck because it’s quite simple to apply this effect to your document. Whether you are a student looking to spruce up your thesis, a business professional preparing a report, or just someone who enjoys the aesthetics of well-formatted text, learning how to use small caps in Word 2013 is a valuable skill that can enhance the overall appearance of your document.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Use Small Caps in Word 2013
Before diving into the steps, it’s worth noting that applying small caps will transform your selected text into a more visually appealing and uniform section. This can be especially useful for headings or titles.
Step 1: Highlight the Text
First, highlight the text you want to apply small caps to.
Selecting the text is the initial step in changing its appearance. Make sure you only highlight the portion of the text that you want to convert to small caps, as this action will only affect the highlighted area.
Step 2: Open the Font Dialog Box
Next, click on the ‘Home’ tab, then click on the small arrow in the lower-right corner of the ‘Font’ group to open the ‘Font’ dialog box.
The ‘Font’ dialog box is where you can find various text formatting options, including the small caps feature. This box gives you more control over the appearance of your text compared to the basic options in the toolbar.
Step 3: Choose ‘Small caps’
In the ‘Font’ dialog box, under the ‘Effects’ section, check the box next to ‘Small caps’. Then click ‘OK’.
By checking the ‘Small caps’ box, you are instructing Word 2013 to apply the small caps effect to your selected text. Once you click ‘OK’, the change will take place immediately.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Professional Look | Small caps can give your document a polished and professional appearance, which is essential in formal writing. |
| Emphasis without Overpowering | Unlike bold or italics, small caps provide a subtler way to emphasize text without making it look too aggressive. |
| Uniformity | Applying small caps can create a sense of uniformity and cohesion in your document, particularly when used for headings or titles. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Overuse Clutters | Using small caps excessively can make your document look cluttered and confusing. |
| Not Suitable for All Text | Small caps may not be appropriate for all types of text, such as body paragraphs, as it can be distracting for lengthy content. |
| Potential Compatibility Issues | If your document is shared with someone who uses an older version of Word or a different word processor, the formatting may not appear correctly. |
Additional Information
When using small caps in Word 2013, it’s important to consider the context and purpose of your document. Small caps are best used sparingly to create emphasis or for stylistic choices in headings, names, or acronyms. It’s also worth noting that small caps can be combined with other formatting options like bold or italics for even more emphasis, though this should be done judiciously to avoid overwhelming the reader.
Additionally, keep in mind that readability is paramount; make sure your small caps text is large enough to be easily read. If you’re looking to make an impact with your document, using small caps is one way to do it, but always remember that less is more. Finally, consider the tone and audience of your document – small caps can convey a formal or serious tone, so use them accordingly.
Summary
- Highlight the text.
- Open the Font dialog box.
- Choose ‘Small caps’.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use small caps for the entire document?
It’s possible, but not recommended. Small caps are best used for specific sections like titles or headings to create emphasis.
Will small caps affect the readability of my text?
If used appropriately and sparingly, small caps should not affect readability. However, using it for large sections of text may make it harder to read.
Can I use small caps in combination with other text effects?
Yes, you can combine small caps with effects like bold or italics, but be cautious not to overdo it.
Are small caps available in all fonts?
Most fonts in Word 2013 support small caps, but there may be some exceptions. If small caps aren’t working, try a different font.
Can I customize the size of small caps?
The size of small caps is automatically set in relation to the uppercase letters and cannot be directly adjusted.
Conclusion
In conclusion, small caps in Word 2013 offer a sophisticated way to add emphasis and professionalism to your documents. Whether for titles, headings, or to highlight important concepts, small caps can enhance the visual appeal of your text when used judiciously.
Remember, the key to effectively using small caps is moderation – they are meant to complement your content, not overtake it. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped to give your documents that extra edge that sets them apart. 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.