How to Insert Word Count in Word: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Inserting Word Count in Microsoft Word is easier than you might think! By following a few simple steps, you can quickly see the total number of words in your document. This is super useful for writers, students, and anyone who needs to keep track of their word count. Let’s go through the process together.

How to Insert Word Count in Word

Below, we’ll walk you through the steps to insert a word count in your Microsoft Word document. This will help you keep an eye on how many words you’ve written, which is handy for meeting word limits or just tracking your progress.

Step 1: Open Your Document

First things first, open the document you want to work with.

You can’t track word count if you don’t have your document open. Make sure you’re using Microsoft Word, as different versions may have slightly different steps.

Step 2: Click on the "Review" Tab

At the top of the screen, click on the "Review" tab.

The "Review" tab contains many helpful tools, including the Word Count tool. Clicking on this tab will display all the options available.

Step 3: Find and Click "Word Count"

Locate the "Word Count" button in the "Proofing" group and click on it.

When you click this button, a dialog box will appear showing various statistics about your document, including the number of words.

Step 4: Check "Include Textboxes, Footnotes, and Endnotes"

In the Word Count dialog box, make sure to check the box that says "Include textboxes, footnotes, and endnotes" if you want those counted too.

This step ensures that all the text in your document is included in the word count. If you leave this unchecked, some parts might be missed.

Step 5: Click "OK"

Finally, click the "OK" button to close the Word Count dialog box.

After you click "OK," the word count information will be updated, and you can continue working on your document with an accurate word count shown.

After completing these steps, you’ll have a clear view of the word count for your entire document. This is invaluable for meeting word requirements or just keeping track of your writing progress.

Tips for Inserting Word Count in Word

  • Use Shortcuts: You can also use the shortcut Alt + T, W to quickly bring up the Word Count dialog box.
  • Status Bar Count: Check the word count in the status bar at the bottom of the Word window for an always-visible count.
  • Update Regularly: Always update the word count before finalizing your document, especially if you’ve made significant changes.
  • Check Specific Sections: Highlight specific sections to see word counts for those portions alone.
  • Stay Organized: Use headings and subheadings to help organize your document, making it easier to manage word count by section.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I see word count for a specific section?

Highlight the text you want to count, then click on the "Word Count" button in the "Review" tab. The dialog box will show the word count for just that section.

Can I add the word count to the document itself?

Yes, you can! Go to the "Insert" tab, then click on "Quick Parts" and select "Field." Choose "NumWords" from the list to insert the word count into the document.

Does Word count words in textboxes?

By default, Word does not count words in textboxes. You need to check the "Include textboxes, footnotes, and endnotes" box in the Word Count dialog box to include them.

How accurate is the word count feature?

The word count feature in Word is highly accurate for most purposes. However, it may not count hidden text or certain special characters.

Can I display word count continuously?

Yes, you can see a continuous word count in the status bar at the bottom of the Word window. If it’s not visible, right-click on the status bar and select "Word Count."

Summary

  1. Open your document.
  2. Click on the "Review" tab.
  3. Click "Word Count."
  4. Check "Include textboxes, footnotes, and endnotes."
  5. Click "OK."

Conclusion

Inserting word count in Word is a simple yet powerful tool for anyone who needs to keep track of their writing. Whether you’re a student working on an essay, a novelist keeping tabs on your manuscript, or a professional meeting strict word limits for a report, knowing your word count can be a game-changer. By following these easy steps—opening your document, navigating to the "Review" tab, and using the Word Count tool—you’ll always know exactly how many words you’ve written.

Don’t forget to utilize the extra tips provided, such as using shortcuts or checking specific sections, to make your writing process even smoother. And if you ever have any questions, refer back to the FAQ section for quick answers.

So go ahead and start tracking your word count in Word today. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your writing journey!