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How to Change Top and Bottom Cell Margins in Word?

Published in Word Table Margins 3 mins read

You can change the top and bottom cell margins in a Word table by using the "Format Table" options.

Adjusting cell margins gives you precise control over the spacing within each cell, affecting how text and other content are positioned relative to the cell borders. While Word offers default cell padding, you can customize these margins, including the top and bottom, for individual cells, selected cells, or the entire table.

Here's how to modify the top and bottom margins for table cells in Word:

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Cell Margins

The most direct method involves using the table formatting options:

  1. Right-click anywhere within the table you want to modify.
  2. From the context menu that appears, select Format Table.
  3. In the Format Table dialog box, click on the Cell Properties tab.
  4. Look for the section labeled Text Box Margins.
  5. Here, you will see options to set margins for the Top, Bottom, Left, and Right sides of the cell content. Enter the desired values (e.g., in inches or centimeters, depending on your Word settings) for the Top and Bottom margins.
  6. Click OK to apply the changes.

Reference Information:

As per the reference: "Right-click the table, and then click Format Table. In the Format Table dialog box, click the Cell Properties tab. Under Text Box Margins, enter the margins you want."

Tips for Working with Cell Margins

  • Scope of Application: Changes made through the "Format Table" dialog typically apply to the cell you right-clicked on initially. To apply changes to multiple cells or the entire table, select the cells or the table before right-clicking and selecting "Format Table".
  • Units: Be mindful of the units displayed (e.g., inches, cm, points). You can usually type in values and Word will convert them.
  • Consistency: For a professional look, maintain consistent top and bottom margins within a row or column, or across the entire table, unless specific visual effects are desired.
  • Visual Check: After applying the margins, visually inspect the table to ensure the spacing looks correct and improves readability.

By following these steps, you can easily customize the spacing within your Word table cells to achieve the desired layout and appearance.

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