Creating Tables in Microsoft Word – Part I – Video Tip

Since many of us in the post-35 year old set learned how to type and create documents with a typewriter, we tend to try and use computer word processors like a typewriter. The two technologies couldn’t be further apart from each other and other than touch typing, we need to throw out almost all our knowledge of document creation from those days.

FRUIT	COLOR	VITAMINS
Apple	Red or Green	Vitamin S
Peach	Peach	Vitamin J
Blueberries	Blue	Vitamin B

No one task illustrates this better than making a list of information in column format (like the illustration on the left) If we try to use tabs to create a three column list in the middle of a document, we are quickly reduced to cursing or babbling incoherent words under our breath. Instead, if you take a few minutes to learn how to use tables in your word processor, you will be creating beautiful documents in record time. Trying to explain how to create a table in words is impossible, you need to see the steps in action which is why I provided you with a video tip. Click the “Read More” option below if the video hasn’t already started to play for you. To repeat the video, simply push F5 on your keyboard or the refresh button in your browser.

Related articles:

1. Creating Tables in Microsoft Word – Part II – Video Tip
2. Use keyboard shortcuts to save time editing text – Video Tip
3. Microsoft Office function without the MS price – on a Mac! – Video Tip
4. Wrap text around pictures in Microsoft Word – Video Tip
5. Create a Watermark in Microsoft Word

5 Responses to “Creating Tables in Microsoft Word – Part I – Video Tip”

1. John Dittmar says:

   July 25, 2009 at 12:06 pm

   Rick: Great article and information, Thanks
   One thing though. I think you meant to say “pre-35″ not “post-35″. Since I am well over 35 I remember well the manual portables and the electric IBM Selectric we used to use! The white out, carbon paper and ink ribbons! Thank goodness for computers and printers!

   Reply
2. Anonymous says:

   December 9, 2006 at 7:31 am

   Love your new use of technology, however it takes forever to download with a land line, and the results are discombobulated. I gave up. Maybe I can learn another way…

   (Some of us cannot afford DSL or Satellite or other high speed Internet services. And some of us live where they are not offered.)

   Reply
3. Anonymous says:

   December 9, 2006 at 2:09 pm

   I have used tables many times but I learned some tricks to make them easier. High speed Internet is well worth the price.
   Harold in Cedaredge

   Reply
4. Anonymous says:

   December 1, 2008 at 10:32 pm

   Hi. I love your tutorial. I am linking it for my students!! Thank you so much.

   Reply
5. Rick says:

   December 2, 2008 at 7:49 am

   I appreciate your comment and link. Table’s can make everyone’s life easier when word processing!

   Reply