“Different columns” in a Word table can mean unequal column widths or rows with different cell layouts. Start with a regular table, then resize columns or merge and split selected cells. These are table controls, separate from the page’s Layout > Columns command.
Make columns different widths
- Choose Insert > Table and pick the starting number of rows and columns.
- Click in the table to show Table Layout. Drag a vertical cell boundary, or select a column and enter a measurement in Table Column Width.
- If Word keeps changing the widths as you type, select the table and choose Table Layout > AutoFit > Fixed Column Width. For a quick content-based layout, choose AutoFit Contents instead.
- Check the table in Print Layout so it stays within the page margins.
Microsoft’s table resizing guide explains manual widths, AutoFit, and distributing columns. Our AutoFit guide covers the fit options in more detail.
Give one row a different cell arrangement
For a title cell spanning two columns, select the two adjacent cells in that row and choose Table Layout > Merge Cells. To create more cells within one existing cell, select it and choose Table Layout > Split Cells, then specify the number of columns or rows. Microsoft documents both actions in its merge and split guide. Do not select every cell in the table when you only want one row to span columns.
Adding another column
Click in a cell beside the desired position and choose Table Layout > Insert Left or Insert Right. Word adds a table column; this differs from splitting one cell or creating newsletter-style page columns.
Keep the table readable
Use a simple header row when the table contains data. Merged or split cells can make complex data tables harder for screen readers to navigate, so use them sparingly. If the table extends beyond the page, try AutoFit Window or adjust widths and margins before shrinking the text.
Matt has been writing about Microsoft Windows and other Microsoft products since the days of Windows XP. He spends much of his time writing for sites like WindowBrain.com