Insert a column break

Applies To
Word for Microsoft 365 Word 2024 Word 2021 Word 2019

If you format a document with columns (as in some newsletter layouts), the text will automatically flow from one column to the other. You can insert your own column breaks for more control over the document format.

Note

Steps apply to Word for Windows using Print Layout view (including Word for Microsoft 365 and recent desktop versions).

  1. Place your cursor where you want the column to break.
  2. Click Layout > Breaks.
    The Column option is highlighted on the Breaks menu.
  3. A menu with options will appear. Click Column.
  4. A column break is inserted. Click Home > Show/Hide Paragraph mark to see it.
    The Show/Hide icon is highlighted on the Home tab.
    selecting a column break with Show Formatting turned on

Tip

The keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+Enter also inserts a column break where you’ve placed your cursor.