Guide to Inserting Background Images in Word

You're probably familiar with the default white background in the Word editing program. In essence, this background image is already well-known to users, and in certain situations, you may need to change this background image to match the current reality or simply because you want to swap it for a more vibrant, fitting alternative to avoid monotony.

This article below will guide you on how to insert background images in Word to make your document more visually appealing and engaging.

GUIDE TO INSERTING BACKGROUND IMAGES IN WORD

* Standard Preparation Steps:

- Commonly used Word versions installed on your computer: Word 2016, 2013.
- Existing Word file ready for insertion or creating a new Word document.

To create a background image for your document page, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the document where you want to insert a background image -> go to the Design tab -> select Page Color -> choose Fill Effects...

Step 2: Next, the

Fill Effects dialogue box appears -> click on the Picture tab -> then click on the Select Picture button:

Step 3: A new dialogue box will appear -> here, you'll see three functions for choosing the image to use as a background:

- From a file: Select a background image from your computer.

- Bing Image Search: Select a background image by searching for images on the Internet.

- OneDrive - Personal: Choose an image available on your personal Drive.

Suppose you choose a background image stored on your computer -> click on Browse under From a file:

Step 4: You navigate to the folder containing the image you want to use as the background -> select the image -> then click Insert

Proceed by selecting OK:

Step 5: The result is that you have successfully created a background image for your document.

Considerations when choosing Word background images

- Image size should fit A4 paper dimensions (794x1123 pixels):

Note that the chosen background image should fit perfectly on one page of the document, displaying fully. If you select an image smaller than the A4 paper size (794x1123 pixels), such as the example below with dimensions of 250x247 pixels:

- Avoid selecting small images:

In such cases, the chosen background image will consist of multiple images pieced together until it fills one page. Therefore, when selecting a background image, opt for one with dimensions suitable for the paper size to avoid multiple repetitions of images in the background.

- Avoid selecting images with many details or text within them

In Word documents, we often have plenty of text. To avoid clutter between the background image and the text, it's advisable not to choose images with intricate details like nature scenes, flowers, or images with lots of text.

- Opt for text colors that contrast well

For bright background images, opt for darker text colors, and for dark or subdued backgrounds, choose lighter text colors (but avoid overly bright colors). Aim for easy readability when viewing the Word document.

How to remove inserted background images in Word?

To remove the background image, simply go back to Design -> select Page Color -> then choose No Color. That's it!

Congratulations! You've successfully inserted a background image in Word! From now on, you can create unique, captivating documents. Hopefully, you'll craft documents that are both intriguing and engaging for your readers.

Furthermore, if you want to learn more about enhancing the appearance and professionalism of Word documents, you can explore how to format text beautifully in Word, as I've previously guided. Wishing you success!