Working with the Word Environment

Word 2016 uses the Ribbon and Quick Access Toolbar. These tools help you find commands for common tasks. It also has the Backstage view for more options.

The Ribbon

The Ribbon replaces traditional menus. It has multiple tabs at the top of the Word window.

Tabs on the Ribbon

Each tab has groups of related commands. For example, the Font group on the Home tab helps you format text.

Some groups have a small arrow in the bottom-right corner. Clicking the arrow shows more options.

Showing and Hiding the Ribbon

If the Ribbon takes too much space, you can hide it. Click the Ribbon Display Options arrow in the top-right corner and choose:

• Auto-hide Ribbon – Hides everything. Click Expand Ribbon to show it again.
• Show Tabs – Hides commands but keeps tabs visible. Click a tab to see the Ribbon.
• Show Tabs and Commands – Shows everything. This is the default setting.