Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated June 2, 2023)
This tip applies to Word 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021
Word includes a full-screen mode that minimizes the extraneous information (tools, menus, etc.) displayed on the screen. The normal way of switching to full-screen mode is to display the View tab of the ribbon and click Full Screen Reading in the Document Views group. (If you are using Word 2013 or a later version, click Read Mode in the Views group.) You can also click the Full Screen Reading view icon (Read Mode view icon Word 2013 or a later version) near the right side of the Status bar located at the bottom of the document window. You can exit the mode by pressing Esc.
If you prefer, you can create a shortcut to enter Full Screen Reading (Read Mode) view. To create your own shortcut, follow these steps:
Figure 1. The customize options of the Word Options dialog box.
Figure 2. The Customize Keyboard dialog box.
Now you can use your shortcut key to easily activate Full Screen Reading view.
WordTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Word training. (Microsoft Word is the most popular word processing software in the world.) This tip (7877) applies to Microsoft Word 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2021. You can find a version of this tip for the older menu interface of Word here: Shortcut for Full-Screen Mode.
Create Custom Apps with VBA! Discover how to extend the capabilities of Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access) with VBA programming, using it for writing macros, automating Office applications, and creating custom applications. Check out Mastering VBA for Office 2013 today!
The Zoom tool is very useful to help you see all of your document information. Here's how to make sure you can see all ...
Discover MoreYou can update fields and links automatically when you print your document, but what if you want them updated when you ...
Discover MoreThe ribbon is the place where Word stores all the tools you need to work with your documents. What happens when the ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
2019-09-26 08:16:36
Anurag M
Thanks so much Allen, it helped me a lot! I have more control over what options to enable via shortcut.
:) Saved my day.
2019-06-29 05:53:04
Andy
I prefer "toggle full screen view" which I have added to the quick access toolbar. It can then be easily accessed via alt-1 (change 1 to the position of the shortcut in your quick access toolbar).
Full screen view doesn't change pagination like reading mode does. I also like it for anytime I am presenting a document to an audience, as it reduces the need for vertical scrolling, and reduces distractions.
Got a version of Word that uses the ribbon interface (Word 2007 or later)? This site is for you! If you use an earlier version of Word, visit our WordTips site focusing on the menu interface.
Visit the WordTips channel on YouTube
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in WordTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments