Wrap Text Around Images in MS Word

Last Updated : 11 Apr, 2026

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).
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  • Select an image and click Insert.
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Step 2: Apply Text Wrapping

Using the Ribbon:

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