If you're using a touch-based device, you can change Word's interface slightly to make it easier to use. Word 2013 can be optimized for either the mouse or touch. (Click image to enlarge.)īeyond the basic look, though, the Ribbon behaves as it did in Word 2010, with a couple of enhancements that we'll get to later.

Word 2013 has a flatter look than previous versions of Word. The Ribbon is now flat instead of three-dimensional, as are all dialog boxes and screens. Even though Word is a traditional desktop app, Word 2013's style follows the basic guidelines that Microsoft has set for its so-called Windows apps (formerly called Metro or Modern apps) that debuted with Windows 8. The most obvious change in Word 2013 is its overall look. If you're looking for help getting up to speed on the basics, such as how to work with the Ribbon interface, check out our Word 2010 cheat sheet. Note that this cheat sheet focuses on what's new in Word 2013, rather than what has stayed the same from previous versions.

For the purposes of this story, that doesn't matter all tips herein apply to whatever version of Word 2013 you're using. Your copy of Word 2013 may have been purchased as standalone software or as part of an Office 365 subscription. Use this Word 2013 cheat sheet to help take advantage of all it has to offer. The buzz today may be all about Office 2016 for Windows, which is due to be released this fall, but many business users are still getting acquainted with Office 2013 and will continue to use it for some time.

Shortcut keys for symbols in word 2013