Word Processing – Creating and Formatting Digital Documents

1. Introduction to Word Processing

What is Word Processing?
Word processing is the use of a computer program to create, edit, format, and print written documents. These documents can include letters, resumes, reports, flyers, invitations, and more.

Examples of Word Processing Software:

✅ Microsoft Word
✅ Google Docs
✅ LibreOffice Writer
✅ WPS Office

Word processors help you write neatly, edit easily, and organize information better than pen and paper.

2. Why Word Processing Is Important

✅ Easy Editing: You can add, remove, or change text anytime without starting over.
✅ Professional Appearance: Use fonts, spacing, and layouts to make your work look polished.
✅ Time-Saving Tools: Use spelling and grammar checks, templates, and shortcuts.
✅ Multi-Purpose: Perfect for writing letters, making flyers, creating reports, etc.
✅ Shareable: Save as PDF, send via email, or print easily.

3. Common Features of Word Processors

Let’s look at basic tools that almost every word processor includes:

1. Text Editing Tools
✏️ Type, delete, or change words
✏️ Copy and paste sections
✏️ Find and replace words

2. Formatting Options
✔ Change font type, size, and color
✔ Bold, italic, underline text
✔ Align text left, center, right, or justified

3. Paragraph & Page Layout Tools
✔ Line spacing and indentation
✔ Page margins and orientation (portrait or landscape)
✔ Page numbering

4. Insert Tools
📷 Pictures and clip art
📊 Tables and charts
🔗 Hyperlinks

5. Proofing Tools
📝 Spell check
📝 Grammar check

4. Getting Started with Microsoft Word

What is Microsoft Word?
Microsoft Word is one of the most popular word processors in the world. It's part of the Microsoft Office Suite.

Opening Microsoft Word

• Click the Start Menu

• Search for Microsoft Word

• Click to open

Understanding the Screen Layout

1. Title Bar – Shows the name of your document

2. Ribbon – The bar with all the buttons (Home, Insert, Layout, etc.)

3. Document Area – Where you type your content

4. Status Bar – Shows page number, word count, etc.

5. Quick Access Toolbar – Buttons for save, undo, redo

5. Creating and Formatting a Document in Microsoft Word

To Create a New Document:

• Click on Blank Document when you open Word.

Typing and Editing Text:

• Click anywhere in the white area and start typing.

• Use Backspace to delete letters behind your cursor.

• Use Delete to erase the character in front.

Basic Formatting

1. Highlight the text you want to format

2. Use tools on the Home tab:

Paragraph Settings

• Use bullets or numbers for lists

• Click the Align buttons for left, center, right

• Adjust Line Spacing for readability
  
  

6. Inserting Images, Tables, and More

Inserting a Picture

• Go to the Insert tab

• Click Pictures

• Choose “This Device” to add from your computer

Inserting a Table

• Go to Insert → Table

• Select the number of rows and columns

• Use it for data, schedules, or lists

Inserting Page Numbers and Headers

• Click Insert → Page Number

• You can also add Headers and Footers with your name, title, or date

Other Useful Insert Tools
✅ Shapes
✅ WordArt (decorative text)
✅ Charts (graphs)

7. Saving, Printing, and Sharing Your Work

To Save Your Document:

• Click File → Save As

• Choose where to save (This PC, OneDrive, USB)

• Name your document and click Save

To Print Your Document:

• Click File → Print

• Choose printer and number of copies

• Click Print

To Share Your Document:

• Click File → Share

• Send via email, or copy a link if you’re using OneDrive

🌟 Bonus Tips for Beginners

✅ Use keyboard shortcuts:

• Ctrl + S = Save

• Ctrl + Z = Undo

• Ctrl + C / Ctrl + V = Copy / Paste

✅ Use templates:

• Microsoft Word has built-in templates for resumes, letters, reports, etc.

✅ Practice regularly:

• Type a letter to a friend

• Make a simple calendar

• Create a personal journal or recipe list