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Most of the time when I need to create something in Word that would normally require tabs, I use tables. Tables are a very useful design tool, believe it or not! Simply remove the table borders, use the text alignment buttons and there you have it. Try using a table rather than tabs next time you have to create an order form, for example.

Here some tips to help you get the most of using tables in Word 97 or 2000.

Important Note

: Where the command names are different in Word 2000, I have enclosed them in brackets, thus (Heading Rows Repeat).

Recurring Headers in Tables

If you have created

a table that is split over two pages or more, you can have the headings appear at the top of each page after automatic page breaks. Select the row or rows you want to have as the headings and then select Headings (Heading Rows Repeat) from the Table menu. The selected rows are then repeated at the top of each page containing the table.

Preventing Rows from Breaking Across Pages

If the last row in a table extends on to the next page, you can prevent this by telling Word to move the entire row to the next page.

Do this by placing your insertion point anywhere in the table, and choosing Cell Height And Width (Table Properties) from the Table menu. Click the Row tab so that it is in front and remove the checkmark from the Allow Row To Break Across Pages checkbox. Click OK.

Using Tabs in Tables

As you probably know, pressing Tab in a table simply takes you to the next cell. To insert a tab in a table, press Ctrl + Tab.

Inserting a Paragraph Break Before a Table

Have you ever created a table at the top of a document and then wanted to add some text before the table? You could cut the table, enter a new line and then paste the table back into the document. But there is a much easier and quicker way. Simply place the cursor in the very first cell (top left) and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.

Using the Tables Toolbar

If you work with tables on a regular basis, you might find it worthwhile to display the Tables toolbar. (It\'s at the top of the screen, and looks like a quartered square with a pencil).

Simply click the Tables and Borders icon on the Standard toolbar. It’s a toggle command so click it again to turn the toolbar \"off\".

Drawing Tables

Don’t forget the Draw Table command in Word 97 or 2000 to create custom tables with uneven columns or rows. This is very useful for designing an order form, for example.