Skip to main content.

Align Paragraphs

 

Paragraph alignment refers to the manner in which the edges of a block of text are aligned.  With Word, you can align text four ways:

  • Align Left Left — aligns only the left side of paragraphs with the left margin.
  • Align Right Right — aligns only the right sides of paragraphs with the right margin.
  • Align Center Center — centers text between the left and right margins.
  • Align Justify Justify —aligns both the left and right sides of paragraphs.

To Change the Alignment for a Block of Text:

  • Select the text that you want to modify.
  • On the toolbox, click on the Formatting Palette button.
  • Click on the Alignment and Spacing header button.
    Alignment and Spacing Section
  • Under the Horizontal Category, select the desired option.

Indenting Text

It is often preferred that the first line of each paragraph be indented about half of an inch.  To change how much (and how) the paragraph indents use the indention tools on the horizontal ruler located directly above the document.  You can set how much the first line indents, how much other lines indent, how much all lines indent, or where the right margin is set.

  • To indent the first line of a paragraph: Drag the First Line Indent marker to the new location.
    First Line Indent Marker
  • To indent all lines, except the first: Drag the Hanging Indent Marker to the new location.
    Hanging Indent Marker
  • To indent all lines: Drag the Left Indent marker to the new location.
    Left Indent Marker

Word Extras

To indent all lines of a block of text, you may use the indent tools in the Paragraph Spacing group in the Alignment and Spacing section of the Toolbox.