How to Position Images with Text Wrapping in Microsoft Word (2026)

How to Position Images with Text Wrapping in Microsoft Word (2026)

Text wrapping determines how text flows around images. Options like ‘Square’, ‘Tight’, and ‘Behind Text’ create different effects. Mastering text wrapping enables professional image placement that enhances rather than disrupts reading flow.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Insert Image

Click Insert > Pictures to add an image to your document.

Step 2: Select Image

Click the image to select it. Selection handles appear around the image.

Step 3: Access Text Wrapping

Right-click the image. Click ‘Wrap Text’ or click Layout Options (square icon near image).

Step 4: Choose Wrapping Style

Select from options: Inline with Text, Square, Tight, Through, Top and Bottom, Behind Text, or In Front of Text.

Step 5: Adjust Image Position

Drag the image to position it. With text wrapping enabled, you can place it anywhere and text will flow around it.

Step 6: Fine-tune Wrapping

Right-click > Wrap Text > More Layout Options for advanced positioning and distance from text settings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using ‘Inline with Text’ for large images—this doesn’t allow text to wrap around; use ‘Square’ instead
• Overlapping images with text, making text unreadable—ensure sufficient white space
• Not checking how the layout looks when the document is printed—screen layout may differ from print

Tips and Tricks

• ‘Square’ wrapping is the most common professional choice—text flows neatly around rectangular images
• Use ‘Behind Text’ for watermarks or background images
• Anchor images to specific paragraphs so they stay with relevant text when documents are edited