How to Show Word Count on Word
If you need to keep track of your word count in Microsoft Word, it’s pretty straightforward. With just a few clicks, you can easily see how many words you’ve written. This can help you stay within assigned limits or hit your writing goals. Here’s how to do it.
How to Show Word Count on Word
This section will guide you through the steps to display the word count in Microsoft Word. By the end of these steps, you’ll be able to see your word count at any moment while working on your document.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word
To begin, open the Microsoft Word application on your computer.
Whether you’re starting a new document or opening an existing one, this step is essential. Make sure you have your document ready to edit.
Step 2: Open the Document
Next, open the document for which you want to see the word count.
You can either start a new document by clicking "New" or open an existing document by selecting "Open" and choosing your file.
Step 3: Locate the Status Bar
Look at the bottom of your Microsoft Word window to find the Status Bar.
The Status Bar is a strip that runs along the bottom of the Word window. It usually shows information like the page number, line number, and, importantly, the word count.
Step 4: Find the Word Count
In the Status Bar, locate the section that shows the word count.
It’s usually on the left side. It will display something like "Words: 0" if it’s a new document or an actual count if words are already typed.
Step 5: Click the Word Count
Click the word count displayed on the Status Bar to see more detailed statistics.
When you click on it, a dialog box will appear showing not just the word count but also the number of characters, paragraphs, and lines.
After completing these steps, you’ll have quick access to the word count of your document right from the Status Bar. It’s a handy tool for writers of all kinds.
Tips for Showing Word Count on Word
- Enable the Status Bar: If the Status Bar is missing, right-click any part of the Status Bar area and ensure "Word Count" is checked.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Press "Ctrl + Shift + G" for a quick word count dialog box.
- Continuous Monitoring: Keep the Status Bar visible to monitor your word count as you type.
- Highlight Specific Sections: Select text to see the word count for only that section.
- Templates: Use Word templates that have the word count feature enabled by default to save time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I show word count in older versions of Word?
In older versions, you may need to go to the Tools menu and select "Word Count" to see the statistics.
Can I see the word count for a specific section?
Yes, highlight the text you want to count, then look at the Status Bar for the word count of that section.
What if the word count isn’t showing on the Status Bar?
Right-click on the Status Bar and make sure "Word Count" is checked.
Is there a keyboard shortcut for word count?
Yes, you can press "Ctrl + Shift + G" to open the word count dialog box quickly.
Can I include footnotes in the word count?
When clicking the word count on the Status Bar, the dialog box will give you the option to include footnotes and endnotes.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Word
- Open the Document
- Locate the Status Bar
- Find the Word Count
- Click the Word Count
Conclusion
Knowing how to show word count on Word is a fundamental skill that can ease your writing process, especially if you need to hit specific word limits or goals. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effortlessly keep track of your word count. This guide gives you multiple ways to monitor your word count, ensuring that you have the flexibility to work in a way that suits you best.
If you’re a student working on an essay, a writer churning out a novel, or a professional drafting a report, these little tricks can help you stay on track. Don’t forget to explore other features in Microsoft Word that might make your writing process smoother. Happy writing!
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.