Have you ever found yourself stuck in a different view mode in Microsoft Word and wondered how to get back to the normal view? Don’t worry, it’s an easy fix! In a few simple steps, you can return to the standard layout and continue working on your document without any hassle. Here’s a quick overview: you’ll need to navigate to the "View" tab on the ribbon and select the "Print Layout" option. This will instantly take you back to the default view mode. Easy, right?
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Return to Normal View in Word
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re aiming for. The ‘Normal View’ in Word is officially known as the ‘Print Layout’ view. This is the default mode where you can see your document as it would appear on a printed page, with margins, headers, and footers all visible. It’s the most commonly used view and is ideal for most editing and formatting tasks.
Step 1: Open your Word document
Open the Word document that you want to return to normal view.
When you open your document, it might open in a different view mode like ‘Read Mode’ or ‘Web Layout’. These modes are helpful for specific purposes but can be confusing if you’re used to the standard layout.
Step 2: Locate the ‘View’ tab
Look for the ‘View’ tab in the ribbon at the top of the screen.
The ribbon is the toolbar at the top of Word that has tabs like ‘Home’, ‘Insert’, and ‘Design’. Each tab has its own set of tools and options.
Step 3: Click on ‘Print Layout’
Under the ‘View’ tab, you will see various options. Click on ‘Print Layout’.
‘Print Layout’ is usually the first option in the ‘Views’ group on the left-hand side of the ribbon. It might also be represented by an icon resembling a piece of paper.
After completing these steps, your document will return to the normal or ‘Print Layout’ view. This means you can now see your document in full, with all formatting and page structure visible just as it would appear when printed.
Tips: How to Return to Normal View in Word
- If you’re working on a touch-enabled device, you can also switch views by tapping the ‘View’ options on the menu.
- Remember that switching views does not affect the content or formatting of your document; it only changes how you see it on the screen.
- If you prefer using keyboard shortcuts, pressing ‘Ctrl + Alt + P’ will switch you to Print Layout view.
- If you frequently switch between different views, consider customizing the Quick Access Toolbar to include the ‘Print Layout’ button for faster access.
- Be aware that some views, like ‘Outline’ or ‘Draft’, may hide certain elements like headers and footers, which will reappear in ‘Print Layout’.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ‘Print Layout’ and ‘Web Layout’?
‘Print Layout’ shows the document as it would appear on a printed page, while ‘Web Layout’ displays the document as it would look on a web page, with continuous text that doesn’t break for pages.
Can I customize what is visible in ‘Print Layout’ view?
Yes, you can adjust what is visible, such as rulers, gridlines, and the navigation pane, by toggling them on or off in the ‘View’ tab.
What should I do if ‘Print Layout’ view is not available?
If ‘Print Layout’ view is not available, your document might be in ‘Protected View’. You can exit ‘Protected View’ by clicking ‘Enable Editing’ at the top of the document.
Why does my document open in a different view every time?
Word might remember the last view you used and open new documents in that view. You can change the default view by going to ‘Options’ under the ‘File’ tab.
Is it possible to work on two different views at the same time?
Yes, you can open the same document in two different windows and set different views in each one. Go to the ‘View’ tab and click ‘New Window’ to open another instance of your document.
Summary
- Open your Word document.
- Locate the ‘View’ tab.
- Click on ‘Print Layout’.
Conclusion
Returning to the normal view in Word is a piece of cake once you know where to look. Whether you accidentally switched views or are just exploring the different layouts available in Word, getting back to the familiar Print Layout view can help you focus on your writing and formatting without any extra distractions. Remember, the key is in the ‘View’ tab on the ribbon—this is your control center for how your document is displayed. And if you’re ever in doubt, just look for the ‘Print Layout’ option, and you’ll be back in familiar territory in no time. So go ahead, give it a try! Who knows, you might just become the go-to Word wizard among your friends or colleagues.
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.