How to Add Footnotes and Endnotes in Microsoft Word (2026)

How to Add Footnotes and Endnotes in Microsoft Word (2026)

Footnotes appear at the page bottom; endnotes appear at the document end. Both provide citations or supplementary information without cluttering main text. Word numbers them automatically.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Position Cursor

Click where you want the note reference in the text.

Step 2: Insert Note

Click References > Insert Footnote (or Insert Endnote). Word adds a note and positions cursor in the note area.

Step 3: Type Note Content

Type your citation, explanation, or supplementary text in the note.

Step 4: Convert Between Types

Right-click a note > Note Options to convert footnotes to endnotes or vice versa.

Step 5: Customize Format

Click References > Note Options to change numbering style (1, 2, 3 vs a, b, c vs i, ii, iii, etc.).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using notes for content that belongs in main text—keep notes brief and supplementary
• Numbering notes manually instead of using automatic numbering—always use Insert Footnote
• Using footnotes when endnotes would be clearer—choose based on reader preference

Tips and Tricks

• Footnotes suit shorter papers; endnotes suit longer documents where page breaks matter
• Use consistent note style throughout—don’t mix footnotes and endnotes without reason
• Academic citations often require specific note formats—check your style guide

Further Reading

• Microsoft Support — Word — Official Microsoft resource providing detailed instructions on using footnotes and endnotes in Word.
• Microsoft Learn — Office — Comprehensive tutorials and guides on Microsoft Office features, including citation tools.
• Chicago Manual of Style Online — Authoritative style guide covering footnote and endnote citation formats commonly used in academic and professional writing.
• Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab) — Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines, including the proper use of footnotes and endnotes.