assignment writing in word - The University of Auckland Library

Academic work also requires page number – these can be created automatically in MS
Word. The following section discusses these features.
Page Size
In New Zealand, we typically use a paper size of A4. Unfortunately, as MS Word is
developed in the United States the default setting is often for a US ‘Letter’ page size. It
is important to ensure that documents are an A4 size as otherwise the page layout can
look quite strange when printed. Using a letter-sized setting is MS Word can also jam
some printers.
To change the page size setting to A4 (or an alternative paper size):
1. Click the Page Layout tab.
2. Click the Size button and choose A4 from the list.
3. If the required page size does not appear in the list, click More Paper Sizes…
and customise the page settings using the Page Setup dialog box.
Margins
Margins are partly defined by the chosen page size setting; however it is also possible
to change these settings. While it is possible to make changes by dragging the ruler
markers, you will have more control over the document as a whole if you alter your
margins using the following method:
1. Click the Page Layout tab.
2. Click the Margins button and choose one from the list.
3. If the required margin setting does not appear in the list, click Custom
Margins… and increase/decrease the top, bottom, left, and/or right margins as
required using the Page Setup dialog box.
Orientation
There are two orientations available in MS Word. They are:
Portrait – The page will be larger vertically, as in a portrait of a person. This is
suitable for writing.
Landscape – The page will be larger horizontally. The page will be suitable for
wide charts, diagrams and images.
To change the page orientation:
1. Click the Page Layout tab.
© 2008, Student Learning Centre, C e n t r e f o r A c a d e m i c D e v e l o p m e n t ,
T h e U n i v e r s i t y o f A u c k l a n d
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