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You are here: Home / Tutorials / How to Change Background Color in Word: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

How to Change Background Color in Word: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

May 17, 2024 By Matthew Burleigh

How to Change Background Color in Word

Changing the background color in Microsoft Word is a simple task that can make your document stand out or be easier on the eyes. By following a few easy steps, you can customize your document’s look to suit your preferences or needs. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it:

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Change Background Color in Word

This section will walk you through the process of changing the background color in Microsoft Word, ensuring your document looks exactly how you want it.

Step 1: Open Your Document

Begin by opening the document in Microsoft Word that you want to modify.

Before you can make any changes, make sure the document is open and ready to be edited. If you don’t have a document open, simply start a new one.

Step 2: Go to the ‘Design’ Tab

Navigate to the ‘Design’ tab located on the ribbon at the top of the Word window.

The ‘Design’ tab houses various options that allow you to customize the appearance of your document, including the background color.

Step 3: Select ‘Page Color’

Click on the ‘Page Color’ button within the ‘Design’ tab.

This button will open a drop-down menu that shows different color options and other customization features.

Step 4: Choose a Color from the Palette

From the drop-down menu, select the color you want by clicking on it.

You can choose from a variety of preset colors, or you can select ‘More Colors’ for additional options, including custom colors.

Step 5: Apply the Color

Once you click on your chosen color, it will immediately be applied to the background of your document.

Your document’s background will change to the selected color, giving it a fresh and personalized look.

After completing these steps, your document will have a new background color. This can make your document more visually appealing or easier to read, depending on the color you choose and the context in which you’re using the document.

Tips for How to Change Background Color in Word

Here are some extra tips to get the most out of changing the background color in Word:

  • Consider Readability: Choose a background color that contrasts well with your text color to ensure readability.
  • Use Custom Colors: If preset options aren’t cutting it, use the ‘More Colors’ feature to create a custom color that fits your precise needs.
  • Preview Before Finalizing: Always preview how different colors look in your document before making your final choice.
  • Be Consistent: If you’re working on multiple documents, maintain a consistent color scheme for a professional look.
  • Mind the Print: Remember that some background colors may not print well, so consider how your document will look on paper if you plan to print it.

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Change Background Color in Word

Can I change the background color for just one page?

No, changing the background color will apply to the entire document, not just a single page.

Will the background color show up when I print the document?

It depends on your printer settings. Sometimes, background colors may not print unless you adjust your settings to include them.

Can I use an image as a background instead of a color?

Yes, you can use an image by selecting ‘Fill Effects’ in the ‘Page Color’ drop-down menu instead of choosing a solid color.

Does changing the background color affect the text formatting?

No, changing the background color will not affect the text formatting. Your fonts and styles will remain the same.

Is this feature available in all versions of Word?

Most modern versions of Word have this feature, but the steps may vary slightly. Always check your version’s help documentation if you run into issues.

Summary

  1. Open Your Document
  2. Go to the ‘Design’ Tab
  3. Select ‘Page Color’
  4. Choose a Color from the Palette
  5. Apply the Color

Conclusion

Changing the background color in Word is a quick and effective way to customize your document’s appearance. Whether you’re aiming to make your text stand out, reduce eye strain, or just add a splash of color, these simple steps make it easy to achieve your goal. By following the step-by-step tutorial and utilizing the additional tips provided, you can ensure your document looks exactly how you want it to.

If you found this guide helpful, you might want to explore other customization options in Word to further enhance your documents. Mastering these tools can give you greater control over your work, making each document uniquely yours. So, go ahead, play around with background colors, and make your Word documents truly reflect your style!

Matthew Burleigh
Matthew Burleigh

Matt has been working with WordPress and creating content using this powerful content management system for years. While he has written about many other tech topics, WordPress is one of his favorites.

You can read his full bio here.

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