Microsoft Word does not have a normal paragraph command for bending ordinary text into an arch. The easiest approach is to create the text as WordArt and apply one of Word’s Transform effects.
Arch text with WordArt
- Open the document and select Insert.
- Choose WordArt and select a style.
- Enter the words you want to curve.
- Select the WordArt object.
- Open Shape Format and choose Text Effects.
- Select Transform, then choose an arch or curved-text effect.
- Resize the WordArt box or use its adjustment control to refine the curve.
WordArt behaves like an object
Arched text is not formatted like a normal paragraph. Word treats the WordArt as a drawing object, so its Layout Options determine how it sits beside other text and whether it moves with nearby paragraphs.
Adjust the curve instead of adding spaces
If the arch looks too shallow or too steep, resize the WordArt object and use the available adjustment handle. Adding spaces between letters usually produces inconsistent results and can make later editing harder.
Keep important body text readable
Curved WordArt works well for signs, decorative headings, invitations, and similar visual elements. Long instructions or essential information are generally easier to read as ordinary text, particularly for people using assistive technology.
Check the printed result
Use Print Preview before printing a document with curved text. A WordArt object placed close to the edge of the page can fall outside the printer’s usable margins even when the entire arch is visible while editing.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.