Text wrapping in MS Word refers to the way text is arranged around an image or object in a document. It allows you to control whether text flows around, above, below, or behind an image, creating a polished and integrated layout.
Key Features
- Multiple Wrapping Styles: Options include Square, Tight, Through, Top and Bottom, Behind Text, and In Front of Text.
- Flexible Positioning: Move images freely while text adjusts automatically based on the wrapping style.
- Customizable Spacing: Adjust the distance between the image and surrounding text for a clean look.
Example: Wrap text tightly around a circular logo in a company newsletter for a seamless design.
Steps to Wrap Text Around Images
Step 1: Insert an Image
- Place the cursor where you want the image.
- Go to Insert > Pictures > This Device (or Online Pictures).

- Select an image and click Insert.

Step 2: Apply Text Wrapping
Using the Ribbon:
- Click the image to select it.

- Go to the Picture Format or Format tab (appears when the image is selected).
- In the Arrange group, click Wrap Text.

- Choose a wrapping style (e.g., Square, Tight, Top and Bottom).
Using Right-Click:
- Right-click the image.
- Select Wrap Text and choose a style from the menu.

Example: Select Tight wrapping for a circular logo to let text flow closely around its edges.
Step 3: Adjust Image Position
Move the Image:
- Drag the image to the desired position; text will adjust based on the wrapping style.
- Use Align tools (Picture Format > Align) to align the image with margins or other objects.
Anchor the Image:
- The image is anchored to a paragraph (indicated by an anchor icon when Show/Hide ¶ is enabled).
- Drag the anchor to a different paragraph to control where the image stays relative to text.
Step 4: Fine-Tune Wrapping
Adjust Text Spacing:
- Right-click the image and select Wrap Text > More Layout Options.

- In the Layout dialog, go to the Text Wrapping tab.
- Set the distance from text (e.g., 0.1 inches) for top, bottom, left, and right.

Edit Wrap Points (for Tight or Through):
- Select the image and click Wrap Text > Edit Wrap Points.
- Drag the wrap points to adjust how text flows around irregular shapes.
Text Wrapping Options
1. In Line with Text
- The image is treated like a character in the text, aligned with the text baseline.
- Use Case: Insert images within a paragraph without disrupting text flow.
2. Square
- Text wraps around the image in a rectangular shape, following its bounding box.
- Use Case: Use for images with regular shapes (e.g., rectangles) in reports or articles.
3. Tight
- Text wraps closely around the actual shape of the image, ideal for irregular shapes.
- Use Case: Use for logos or images with transparent backgrounds.
4. Through
- Similar to Tight, but text flows into transparent areas of the image (if supported).
- Use Case: Use for images with complex transparency, like clip art.
5. Top and Bottom
- Text appears above and below the image, with no text on the sides.
- Use Case: Use for large images or charts that need a clear separation from text.
6. Behind Text
- The image is placed behind the text, acting as a background or watermark.
- Use Case: Use for decorative images or watermarks.
7. In Front of Text
- The image covers the text, which appears behind it.
- Use Case: Use for overlays or when text is meant to be obscured by the image.