How to wrap text around pictures in Word
Note: The following segment of training is also a Sidebar Lesson so you can return to it easily from any week.
Word and PowerPoint handle pictures differently. In PowerPoint text and graphics aexist on separate layers by default, like playing cards on a table. They can be moved independently and set on top of each other. Objects overlap by default..
In Word, text and graphics exist on one layer by default. This means inserted pictures will push text out of the way. Only one object can use the space. The picture will take its linear, sequential place in the document like a giant text character wherever the cursor was placed at insert and push the remaining text to the end of the graphic.
However, Word has a TEXT WRAP feature, that allows text to flow smoothly around pictures and share the page harmoniously. Double-click graphic to open the Format Picture window, and select the Layout Tab to view all the WRAP features. Experiment with them. Notice, Word does allow layers, meaning pictures can be placed behind or in front of text. Follow the six steps and screen shots below to practice inserting pictures into Word and wrapping them.
4 Steps:
1. Insert a picture
Insert-Picture Menu
To insert a picture from your hard drive, in the top text menu click on
Insert >Picture >From File...Notice the three Picture options: you have the option to use Clip Art... that comes with Microsoft products and is free of any copyright restrictions, or you can select From File... and choose a picture you have scanned or downloaded from the Internet and stored on your hard drive. You may also have a From Scanner or Camera... link directly to your scanner and digital camera if you have the latest software and those peripheral devices are properly installed.
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Once you import your picture it is going to push all the text out of the way, which is the default setting -- Inline With Text2. You can change the Default Setting for imported pictures by double-clicking on the picture. That will open the Format Picture Window. Select the Layout Tab.
Format Picture Window, set on Layout Tab
3. To have the text wrap around your picture, select the Wrapping Style Square. For Horizontal alignment, select Left to position your picture on the left or Right to position the picture to the right. See the wrapped example below.
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Screenshot of two inserted graphics: a scanned photo aligned left and a
piece of clipart aligned right4. Continue to illustrate your story in whatever creative fashion you desire.
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