10 Microsoft Word Hidden Features That’ll Make You a Power User

You probably already know how to use Microsoft Word, but the chances are, you don’t take full advantage of what it can really do. 

Microsoft Word is a straightforward and intuitive word processing software many only get the minimum usage of. 

The best of MS Word is truly in those hidden features and extensive capabilities you haven’t tapped into. 

From features that allow you to focus on writing better to one you can turn your speaking into writing, MS Word is full of golden trips. 

Here are 10 hidden features of Microsoft Word that’ll turn you into a power user. 

10 Hidden Features of Microsoft Word

1. Navigation pane: This feature allows you to quickly jump to different sections of your document. To access it, click on the “View” tab and select “Navigation Pane.”
2. AutoText: This feature allows you to create shortcuts for frequently used phrases or text. To create an AutoText entry, select the text you want to use as a shortcut and go to the “Insert” tab -> “Quick Parts” -> “AutoText” -> “Save Selection to AutoText Gallery.”
3. Smart Lookup: This feature allows you to search the web for information without leaving the document you’re working on. To access it, select a word or phrase and right-click on it, then choose “Smart Lookup.”
4. Voice dictation: This feature allows you to speak and have your words typed into the document. To access it, click on the microphone icon in the “Dictate” group on the “Home” tab.
5. Custom keyboard shortcuts: This feature allows you to create custom keyboard shortcuts for frequently used commands. To create a custom keyboard shortcut, go to “File” -> “Options” -> “Customize Ribbon” -> “Customize Keyboard” -> “Categories” -> “Commands.”
6. Hidden text: This feature allows you to hide text that you don’t want to appear in your final document. To hide text, select the text and go to “Font” -> “Effects” -> “Hidden.”
7. Custom bullet points: This feature allows you to create custom bullet points to use in your document. To create a custom bullet point, go to “Home” -> “Paragraph” -> “Bullets” -> “Define New Bullet.”
8. Focus mode: This feature allows you to hide all the menus and toolbars to help you focus on your writing. To enter focus mode, go to “View” -> “Focus.”
9. Read more: This feature allows you to view your document in a format optimized for reading. To enter read mode, go to “View” -> “Read Mode.”
10. Version history: This feature allows you to view and restore previous versions of your document. To access version history, go to “File” -> “Info” -> “Version History.”