Setting Margins in Word 2010: A Brief History of Margins in Written Communication

Margins are often overlooked as an important aspect of written communication, but they have a long and rich history. From ancient Egyptian scrolls to modern digital documents, margins have played a crucial role in organizing the written word. In this article, we will explore the significance of margins and how to set them in Word 2010.

Before the advent of the codex, margins were used to visually signal to readers when to stop reading and move down to the next line of text. This was particularly important in ancient Egypt, where papyrus scrolls could reach up to 30 metres in length and contained text organized in columns laid out from left to right along the scroll. Margins also served as a way to separate columns or sections of text, making it easier for readers to navigate.

With the introduction of the codex, margins took on a new significance. Scholars would include commentaries next to the original text, creating marginalia that provided additional context and insight. This practice is still used today in scholarly publications, where scholars may include footnotes or annotations in the margins.

In Word 2010, setting margins is a simple process. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Open your document in Word 2010.

2. Go to the 'Page Layout' tab in the ribbon.

3. Click on the 'Margins' button in the 'Page Setup' group.

4. Choose from a range of pre-defined margin settings or customize your own using the dropdown menus.

By following these steps, you can set margins that are tailored to your needs and preferences. Whether you're writing a scholarly paper, creating a report for work, or simply composing an email, setting the right margins can make a big difference in how easy it is to read and understand your text.

In conclusion, margins have played a significant role in written communication throughout history. From ancient Egyptian scrolls to modern digital documents, margins have been used to organize and clarify text. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can set margins in Word 2010 that will help make your writing more readable and effective.

Set margins in word 2010