When you open MS Word, you probably just start typing without giving much thought to the settings of that document. But those settings may not be the ideal for a novel manuscript. For example, all manuscripts should be double spaced, but Word’s default document is single spaced.
Therefore learning about styles and templates will allow you to preset your fonts, spacing, and more so that when you open a document you don’t need to give a second thought to the settings.
Styles preset the font, font size, spacing, indents, alignment, and much more. Here are two videos that give information on using and modifying styles :
Here are some articles on styles:
- Tips for Understanding Styles in Word: http://shaunakelly.com/word/styles/stylesms.html
- 10 Microsoft Word Style Tips: http://www.techhive.com/article/260668/10_microsoft_word_style_secrets.html
Once you understand how styles work and how to modify them, you can create a specific style to use with all your manuscripts.
Then go one step further and create a template. Like styles, a template is a pattern or model. It’s like using a stencil to trace the shape of a letter. You get the exact same shape every time.
Here are several useful articles on what templates are and how to create them:
- Creating a Template, the Basics: http://word.mvps.org/faqs/customization/createatemplatepart1.htm
- Create a Template: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/word-help/create-a-template-HA102840176.aspx
- Introduction to Word Templates: http://wordprocessing.about.com/od/usingtemplatesandaddins/l/blwordtemp.htm
Once you have a template designed for your manuscript, start with that template each time you begin a new novel. Then you won’t have to deal with changing anything. You’ll be able to start writing that amazing novel idea the moment the document opens.
Are there other things about Word you would like to learn? Leave your ideas in the comments below.