Are you stuck on how to put a line between columns in Word? It’s easier than you think! With just a few clicks, you can add a vertical line that separates your columns, making your document look more organized and professional. Follow along with these simple steps, and you’ll have that vertical line in place in no time.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Put a Line Between Columns in Word
Here, we will guide you through the process of adding a vertical line between columns in your Word document. Each step is straightforward, ensuring you can follow along without any confusion.
Step 1: Open Your Word Document
Open the Word document where you want to add a line between columns.
Before doing anything else, you need to have your document open and ready. Make sure it’s the one where you want to add the column line.
Step 2: Select the Text
Highlight the text that you want to place into columns.
This step is crucial because Word needs to know which text you want to apply the columns to. Just click and drag your mouse over the text.
Step 3: Go to the Layout Tab
Click on the "Layout" tab at the top of the Word window.
The "Layout" tab (sometimes called "Page Layout") contains various options for formatting your document, including adding columns.
Step 4: Click on Columns
In the "Layout" tab, click the "Columns" button, and select "More Columns" from the dropdown menu.
This will open the "Columns" dialog box where you can customize the number of columns and other settings, including adding a line between columns.
Step 5: Check the Line Between Box
In the "Columns" dialog box, check the box that says "Line Between."
This option adds a vertical line between your columns, giving you that professional look.
Step 6: Click OK
Click the "OK" button to apply the changes.
Once you click OK, Word will apply the settings, and you should see a vertical line between your columns.
When you are done, your text will be neatly divided into columns with a vertical line separating them. This change can enhance the readability and organization of your document.
Tips for Adding a Line Between Columns in Word
- Always preview your changes before finalizing to make sure it looks the way you want.
- Remember that too many columns can make the document hard to read. Stick to two or three columns for better readability.
- Make use of the "Line Between" option to avoid using other methods to insert lines manually.
- Use the "Columns" option in the "Layout" tab whenever you need to make adjustments to your columns.
- Save your document before and after making changes to avoid losing your work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove the line between columns?
To remove the line, go back to the "Columns" dialog box and uncheck the "Line Between" box, then click "OK."
Can I add a line between columns in all versions of Word?
Yes, most versions of Word, including older ones, allow you to add a line between columns.
What if I want different column settings on different pages?
You can section your document using "Section Breaks" and then apply different column settings to each section.
Can I adjust the thickness of the line between columns?
No, Word doesn’t allow you to change the thickness of the line. It’s a preset setting.
Will the line between columns show up when I print the document?
Yes, the line between columns will appear in the printout if it’s visible in the document.
Summary of Steps
- Open your Word Document.
- Select the text.
- Go to the Layout tab.
- Click on Columns and select More Columns.
- Check the Line Between box.
- Click OK.
Conclusion
Adding a line between columns in Word is a simple yet effective way to make your document look more polished and organized. By following these steps, you can easily transform a plain document into a more professional-looking piece. Whether you’re drafting a newsletter, creating a report, or just trying to make your text more accessible, this little trick can make a big difference.
Remember, the key to mastering Word is exploring its features and seeing what works best for your needs. So, go ahead, try adding a line between columns in Word, and see how it enhances your document’s readability. Happy formatting!

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.