How to Check a Box in Word Doc
Creating a checkbox in Microsoft Word is a useful feature for creating lists, surveys, and forms. Unlike an ordered list (with numbers) or an unordered list (with bullet points), a list with checkboxes lets you mark off an item when you’re done addressing it. Below are two methods for making lists with checkboxes and directions for how to check a box in Word.
2 Ways to Make a Checkbox in Word
This article covers two methods for making checkboxes. The first is a bit more involved than the second, but both are easy enough for anyone to perform.
Method 1: Using the Developer Tab
For this technique, we’ll first enable the Developer tab and then use it to insert a box to check in Word.
1. Go to File > Options.
2. Select Customize Ribbon from the left.
3. In the far right pane, select the box next to Developer, then click OK.
4. In the right pane, check the box next to Developer and click OK.
5. Click on the Developer tab in the ribbon at the top of Microsoft Word.
6. From the Controls group, select the checkbox icon.
7. A checkbox will appear in your document where your cursor is placed. To check a box, simply select it.
Method 2: Convert Bullet Points into Checkboxes
Another way to add a checkbox in Word is to start with bullet points and then convert them to boxes. How you check a box like this works a little differently than the above method because, depending on the box you pick, a check will already exist in it. This is a good method to use if you want to force a neat-looking checkbox instead of the standard one made through the Developer tab.
1. Make a list of items you want to turn into clickable checkboxes.
2. Highlight the list, making sure each item is selected.
3. From the Home tab, in the Paragraph group, select the arrow next to the bullets and choose Define New Bullet.
4. Select Symbol and then choose Wingdings as the font type.
5. Pick a checkbox design. The boxes provided in the preview reveal what the checkboxes will look like.
Tips for Adding Checkboxes to Word Doc
- For Printable Checklists: The Developer tab method is great because it leaves open boxes you can check off with a pen.
- For Interactive Forms: Use the Developer tab method so the boxes can be checked off.
- Saving the Document: Ensure to save your document in a format that retains the checkboxes (e.g., .docx).
- Interface Differences: The user interface of Microsoft Word can vary slightly between Mac and Windows versions, but the core functionality remains the same.
- Feature Availability: All the methods mentioned above are available in both Mac and Windows versions of Word.
- Version Consistency: Ensure your Word application is updated to the latest version for the best compatibility and feature availability on Mac and Windows platforms.
By following these steps, you can easily add and customize checkboxes in your Microsoft Word documents, enhancing their functionality and appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I insert a tick in a checkbox in Word? Click the empty box to check it off.
- Why can’t I remove a checkbox in Word? Click an already checked-off box to clear the checkmark. If that doesn’t work, restart Word or delete and remake the checkbox.
- Is there a short code for checkboxes? Press Alt+2160 to enter a box that resembles a checkbox. It can’t be interacted with in Word, but it’s useful for a printout.
