How to Default Font in Word
Changing the default font in Microsoft Word is a simple process that can save you a lot of time. By setting your preferred font as the default, you won’t have to manually change it every time you start a new document. Here’s a quick overview: Open a blank document, access the font settings, choose your desired font, and set it as the default. Now, let’s break it down step by step.
How to Default Font in Word
In this section, you’ll learn how to set your favorite font as the default in Microsoft Word, ensuring that every new document you create automatically uses this font.
Step 1: Open a blank document
First, open Microsoft Word and create a new, blank document.
It’s important to start with a blank document to ensure that no existing styles interfere with the changes you’re about to make. This way, you’re starting with a clean slate, which makes the process smoother.
Step 2: Access the font settings
Next, go to the "Home" tab on the ribbon and click the small launcher icon in the bottom right corner of the "Font" group.
This action will open the "Font" dialog box, where you can see all the font options available. This box is like your control center for everything font-related.
Step 3: Choose your desired font
In the "Font" dialog box, select the font, style, and size you prefer.
Take your time here. You can experiment with different fonts and sizes until you find the one that feels just right. This setting will apply to all future documents, so choose something you love.
Step 4: Set the font as default
Click the "Set As Default" button at the bottom of the "Font" dialog box.
A new window will pop up, asking if you want to set the default for only this document or all documents based on the Normal template. Choose the latter to make this change for all future documents.
Step 5: Confirm your decision
After selecting your preference, click "OK" to confirm and close the dialog box.
Your chosen font will now be the default for all new documents. Test it out by creating a new document to see if everything looks as you expected.
Once you’ve followed these steps, every new document you create in Word will automatically use the default font you’ve set. This can streamline your workflow and ensure consistency across your documents.
Tips for Default Font in Word
- Choose wisely: Pick a font that is easy to read and professional-looking, especially if you use Word for work or school documents.
- Consider readability: Fonts like Calibri, Arial, and Times New Roman are popular because they are easy on the eyes.
- Don’t go too small or too big: A font size between 10 and 12 points is usually ideal for most documents.
- Check compatibility: If you share documents often, make sure your chosen font is commonly available on other computers.
- Experiment first: Before setting a default, try out different fonts in a few test documents to see how they look in different contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the default font back to the original?
Yes, you can always revert to the original default font by following the same steps but selecting the original font (usually Calibri, 11pt).
Will this change affect existing documents?
No, changing the default font only affects new documents. Existing documents will retain their current fonts unless you manually change them.
Can I set different default fonts for different templates?
Yes, you can create and save different templates with different default fonts. When you create a document based on a specific template, it will use the font settings saved in that template.
Does this work on all versions of Microsoft Word?
The steps are generally the same across most versions of Word, although the specific interface may vary slightly depending on the version you have.
What happens if I open my document on a computer that doesn’t have my default font?
If the default font isn’t available on another computer, Word will substitute it with a similar font that is available.
Summary
- Open a blank document.
- Access the font settings.
- Choose your desired font.
- Set the font as default.
- Confirm your decision.
Conclusion
Setting your default font in Microsoft Word is a small but mighty change that can save you time and ensure consistency across your documents. Whether you’re working on school assignments, business reports, or personal projects, having a default font that suits your style can make a big difference.
If you’re someone who likes to have things just so, this is a great way to customize your Word experience. Plus, it’s super easy to change back if you ever want to switch things up.
For further reading, check out other customization options in Word. You can personalize your toolbar, change default margins, and even set up your own templates. The more you know, the more efficient you’ll become. So, why not give it a try today and set your default font in Word? It’s a simple tweak that can make a world of difference.

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.