10 Lesser-Known Microsoft Word Features to Boost Your Productivity

Updated by Tina Sieber on February 28, 2017.

Everyone knows Clippy, but are you familiar with the pilcrow? Or widow lines? If so, you're ahead of the curve. For the rest of us, Microsoft Word is packed with powerful, underutilized features honed by years of professional use. As someone who's relied on Word for complex reports and daily workflows, I've uncovered these 10 hidden gems that streamline tasks and save hours.

1. Eliminate Distractions for Focused Writing

Word's ribbon can clutter your view, but toggle it away with Ctrl + F1. For full focus, click Ribbon Display Options and select Auto-hide the Ribbon.

For distraction-free reading (available since Word 2010, optimized in 2013/2016), use Alt + W, F or View > Reading Mode from the ribbon—or the status bar button. Double-click to zoom into tables, charts, or images.

2. Organize Large Documents with Outline View

Boost productivity by 50% on big projects: Go to View > Outline. Reorder headings (up to nine levels), promote/demote text, and collapse sections. Drag headers to move entire blocks with subheadings and body text.

• Jump to specific headings in long docs.
• Outline first, then flesh out in Draft view.
• Quickly reformat with Heading 1-3 styles.

3. Brainstorm Freely with Click and Type

Double-click anywhere in Print or Web Layout view to start typing—no cursor fussing. Perfect for mind mapping or inserting text/graphics on the fly (since Word 2002).

4. Convert Tables to Charts in 3 Steps

Select your table data, then:

1. Click Insert tab.
2. In Text group, click Object > Object dialog.
3. Choose Microsoft Graph Chart > OK.

Edit the resulting chart like any element—ideal for simple visuals without Excel.

5. Craft Professional Equations

Under Insert > Equation > Insert New Equation, build complex math, physics, or chemistry formulas with the toolbar. Pre-built options speed things up.

6. Store 24 Clipboard Items

Word's clipboard holds 24 items (vs. Windows' one). Open via Home dropdown or Ctrl + C twice. Copy multiple elements and paste selectively.

7. Translate Text Instantly

Use Review > Translate for words, selections, or full docs via Microsoft Translator. Supports dozens of languages.

8. Refine Typography with Kerning

For polished designs like e-book covers, enable kerning: Ctrl + D (or Font dialog) > check Kerning for fonts > set point size threshold. Test carefully—best for large fonts.

9. Inspect Documents Before Sharing

Remove hidden data: File > Info > Check for Issues > Inspect Document. Scan for comments, metadata, etc., and Remove All as needed.

10. Harness Hidden Text and Non-Printing Characters

Hide text via Font dialog > Hidden for quizzes, printing variants, or temp privacy. Print it selectively in Options > Display.

Toggle non-printing marks (Home > ¶ or Ctrl + *) to perfect spacing, tabs, and layout. In 2013/2016, expand/collapse sections too.

Unlock Your Inner Word Champion

Microsoft Office pros in annual championships swear by these efficiencies. Explore the hidden Developer tab next for advanced power.