To put the document title at the top of every page in Word 2013, add it to the header. Go to Insert > Header > Blank, type your title, and press Esc. It now appears at the top of every page. For a title that updates automatically if you rename the document’s Title property, use Header & Footer Tools Design > Quick Parts > Document Property > Title instead of typing it.
These steps also work in Word 2016, 2019, 2021, and Microsoft 365. Below are both methods, how to format the title, and how to leave it off the first page.
Method 1: Type the title in the header
- Click Insert > Header.
- Choose Blank (or a style you like).
- Type your document title where it says [Type here].
- Press Esc or double-click the body of the page to close the header.
Use the Home tab while the header is open to change the font, size, or alignment. Many people center the title or align it left with the page number on the right.
Method 2: Insert the Title property (updates automatically)
- Double-click the top margin of any page to open the header.
- On the Header & Footer Tools Design tab, click Quick Parts > Document Property > Title.
- Type the title in the box that appears. It’s saved to the document’s Title property.
- Press Esc.
To change it later, edit it in the header, or go to File > Info and change Title in the Properties list. Every place the Title property is used updates.
How to leave the title off the first page
- Double-click the header on page 1.
- Check Different First Page on the Design tab.
- Delete anything in the first-page header if needed.
How to add the title and page numbers together
- With the header open, type your title on the left.
- Press Tab twice to jump to the right edge.
- Click Page Number > Current Position > Plain Number.
For MLA-style headers with your last name, see how to add your last name and page number in Word.
Troubleshooting
- Title shows only on some pages: Your document has section breaks. Open the header in each section and turn on Link to Previous.
- Can’t edit the header: The document may be protected. See how to unlock the header and footer in Word.
- Title too close to the page edge: Increase Header from Top on the Design tab.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put the file name at the top instead?
Yes. In the header, click Quick Parts > Field, choose FileName, and click OK. It updates when you save with a new name and refresh fields (select it and press F9).
How do I put the title at the bottom instead?
Use Insert > Footer and follow the same steps.
Does the header print?
Yes. Headers print on every page where they appear.
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.