top of page
  • Writer's pictureGo Ask Debbie

How to Select Text in Word

Updated: Jun 24, 2021

I've taught people these handy tips, but still see people spending too much time selecting text in Word.


There are many ways to select text in Word, these are just a few ideas.


It may seem like a simple thing, but I see people often frustrated when trying to select text.


1) To select a single letter, number, or symbol, you can to Click and Drag your mouse to highlight the item.


2) To select an entire word, simply Double-Click the word.


3) To select a line, move your mouse to the left margin (the mouse will turn into a right-pointing arrow) and Single Click.





4) To select a paragraph, move your mouse to the left margin (the mouse will turn into a right-pointing arrow) and Double-Click.


5) To select the text of the entire document, move your mouse to the left margin (the mouse will turn into a right-pointing arrow) and Triple-Click. You may also press CTRL + A.



There may be times when you do not wish to select an entire paragraph, or the entire document; but need to select a particular sentence or a few words. To do this, you will Click and Drag your mouse just as you do in selecting a single character. Often people have difficulty doing this.


A hint that helps is to use your Arrow Keys on the keyboard. To do this, simply place your cursor in the desired position and while Holding the Shift Key, use your Arrow Keys to move the highlighted (selected) area to the position of your choice.


Using these tips to select text in Word will help save you time. And, sometimes, it can save frustration as I've seen people struggle with selecting text in Word.


 

For this and many other tips and shortcuts, CLICK HERE to download my 65+ Ways to Use Microsoft Office to Be More Productive!


bottom of page