how to make header smaller in word
If you’re looking to make the header area smaller in Microsoft Word, it’s a straightforward process that involves adjusting the header’s height. You can do this by accessing the header settings and tweaking the margin or ruler settings. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you quickly shrink that header down to size.
How to Make Header Smaller in Word
By following these steps, you’ll learn how to adjust the header size in Word, making it less obtrusive and giving your document a cleaner look.
Step 1: Open the Document
Start by opening your Word document where you want to make the header smaller.
Once your document is open, make sure you are in the "Print Layout" view. This view allows you to see the header area and make precise adjustments.
Step 2: Double-Click the Header Area
Double-click the header area at the top of the page to activate it.
Once activated, you’ll see a dashed line indicating the header boundary and the Header & Footer Tools Design tab will appear.
Step 3: Adjust the Header Height
In the Header & Footer Tools Design tab, find the "Header from Top" field and change the value to make the header smaller.
For example, if it’s set to 1 inch, try reducing it to 0.5 inches. This action will move the header content closer to the top edge of the page.
Step 4: Use the Ruler
If further adjustment is needed, use the ruler at the top of the document to drag the bottom boundary of the header upwards.
Click and drag the ruler marker to adjust the height precisely as per your requirement. This is especially useful for visual fine-tuning.
Step 5: Close the Header
After making the necessary adjustments, click the “Close Header and Footer” button in the Header & Footer Tools Design tab.
This action will lock in your changes and return you to the main document view.
After completing these steps, your header will occupy less space, giving your document a more streamlined appearance.
Tips for Making Header Smaller in Word
- Use precise measurements: If you need exact dimensions, type the measurements directly into the "Header from Top" field.
- Preview your changes: Always preview your document to ensure the header looks right across all pages.
- Use templates: Consider using pre-designed templates with smaller headers if you frequently need this format.
- Keep content minimal: Simplify the content in the header to avoid clutter when reducing its size.
- Save a copy: Always save a copy of your document before making major changes, so you have a backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my header content gets cut off?
If the content in your header is too large for the new size, you might need to resize or reformat the text and images within the header.
Can I make the header different sizes on different pages?
Yes, you can adjust the header size for individual sections by using section breaks and changing the header settings for each section.
How do I remove the header entirely?
To remove the header, double-click it to activate, then delete all the content and close the Header & Footer Tools Design tab.
Can I adjust the header size in all versions of Word?
Yes, adjusting the header size is possible in all modern versions of Word, though the steps may vary slightly between versions.
What other settings affect header size?
Margins and page layout settings can also impact the header size. Check these settings if you’re having trouble with header adjustments.
Summary
- Open the Document.
- Double-Click the Header Area.
- Adjust the Header Height.
- Use the Ruler.
- Close the Header.
Conclusion
There you have it! Adjusting the header size in Word is a simple task that can make your documents look more polished and professional. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily reduce the space your header takes up, giving more room to the main content.
Remember to always preview your changes to ensure it looks good across all pages. If you’re frequently adjusting headers, consider creating or using templates with the desired header size.
For more advanced document formatting, explore other features in the “Header & Footer Tools Design” tab. Refining these small details can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your documents. Give these steps a try and see how a smaller header can improve your document’s look and feel.
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.