Modifying Tables
Learn how to add and delete rows and columns, merge and split cells, resize columns, and apply table styles in Microsoft Word.
Video
Watch the lesson video, then complete the reading and challenge.
Lesson Notes
Read through the key concepts before you try the challenge.
Adding Rows and Columns
Right-click a cell and choose Insert to add rows above or below, or columns to the left or right. You can also hover over the edge of a row or column to see the quick-insert (+) button.
Deleting Rows, Columns, and the Table
Select the row or column you want to remove, right-click, and choose Delete Rows or Delete Columns. To delete the entire table, right-click and choose Delete Table.
Merging Cells
Select two or more adjacent cells, go to the Layout tab, and click Merge Cells. The selected cells combine into one, which is useful for spanning a header across multiple columns.
Splitting Cells
Select a cell, go to the Layout tab, and click Split Cells. Enter the number of columns and rows to divide the cell into, then click OK.
Resizing Columns and Rows
Drag the column or row border to resize manually. For precise sizing, select a column and use the Width field in the Layout tab's Cell Size group. Click AutoFit → AutoFit Contents to resize all columns to fit their content automatically.
Applying Table Styles
Click inside the table, go to the Table Design tab, and browse the Table Styles gallery. Hover over any style to preview it on your table, then click to apply.
Knowledge Check
What does the Merge Cells command do in a Word table?
Practice File
Download this file and follow along with the lesson.
Challenge
Apply what you've learned in this lesson.
Complete the following tasks:
- Open the practice table and add a new row at the bottom.
- Delete the third column from the table.
- Merge the cells in the first row across all columns to create a spanning header.
- Use AutoFit Contents to resize all columns to fit their text.
- Apply a Table Style of your choice from the Table Design tab.