A document’s margin is the space between the edge of the paper and where the text begins. Ideal margins depend on many factors, including the document type, the need to limit the number of pages (for example, if you’re paying by the page to fax or copy a document), and the audience’s needs. Adjusting the margins can also control the perception of your document, making it look like it is longer or shorter than it actually is. Many a student who has been assigned a “three-page paper” has tried to get away with writing less by using large margins! (Of course, that generally doesn’t work because teachers know that trick.) Word offers several sets of standard margin settings. Choose Page Layout-->Margins and then choose from the list. Each preset has a value assigned to the four page sides. Usually, a document uses the same margin setting for opposite sides (the same value for top and bottom, and the same value for left and right). This isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, though. You might, for example, want extra space at the top of a page when you’re printing on stationery with a name and address preprinted at the top. And, if you’re going to bind your pages or use a three-hole punch for pages presented in a binder, you might want a larger margin. If none of the choices on the list match what you want, choose Custom Margins from the bottom of the Margins menu and enter precise values in the Page Setup dialog box that appears. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures
Close In the next 24 hours, you will receive an email to confirm your subscription to receive emails related to AARP volunteering. Once you confirm that subscription, you will regularly receive communications related to AARP volunteering. In the meantime, please feel free to search for ways to make a difference in your community at Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.