How to Wrap Text Around an Image in Word (Step-by-Step

By Sarah Chen December 29, 2025 Updated March 19, 2026 word-tutorial
Share

Quick Answer

To wrap text around an image in Word, select the image, click the Layout Options icon, and choose a wrapping style such as Square or Tight. These options allow text to flow closely around the image, enhancing document layout. Word offers at least six wrapping styles to customize text positioning relative to images.

Introduction

Text wrapping transforms single-column documents into sophisticated layouts where images sit alongside flowing text. Microsoft Word’s wrapping options enable professional document designs with integrated text and imagery.

Method 1: Quick Text Wrapping

Basic Wrapping Setup

  1. Click image
  2. Go to Picture Format > Wrap Text
  3. Choose wrapping style:
    • Square: Text wraps around rectangular shape
    • Tight: Text follows image contours
    • Top and Bottom: Text above and below only
  4. Text immediately repositions

Wrapping Options

In Line with Text: Image treated as large character (no wrap) Square: Text wraps in box around image Tight: Text follows image outline Top and Bottom: Text only above/below, not beside Behind Text: Image behind text layer In Front of Text: Image above text layer

Best Practices

  1. Use consistent wrapping: All images should use same style throughout
  2. Maintain readability: Ensure text isn’t cramped around images
  3. Add spacing: Leave margins between image and text
  4. Test layout: Verify appearance on all pages

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I adjust margins around wrapped images? A: Select image > Wrap Text > More Layout Options > set margins as desired.

Conclusion

Text wrapping creates professional, integrated layouts combining text and imagery. Master these options to transform documents from plain text into visually sophisticated designs.

Further Reading

  • Microsoft Support — Word — Official Microsoft resource providing detailed instructions on text wrapping and image formatting in Word.
  • Microsoft Office Help — Comprehensive help center for all Office applications, including tips on configuring image layouts and text flow.
  • Microsoft Learn — Office — In-depth tutorials and documentation on Office features, useful for mastering text wrapping options in Word.

Frequently Asked Questions

What text wrapping options are available?

Options include In Line with Text, Square, Tight, Through, Top and Bottom, and Behind Text. Each affects how text flows around images.

How do I control spacing between text and image?

Select image, go to Wrap Text > More Layout Options, and adjust margins to set space between image and text.

Can I position image in specific location and have text wrap?

Yes. Use Square or Tight wrapping to position image and have text flow around it automatically.

Spend Less Time Formatting

GenText handles formatting inside Word so you can focus on your writing.

Try Free
Share
word-tutorial images formatting