If you use a small laptop, the ribbon can take up almost half of your work area.
Did you know you can hide the ribbon until you need it? This article explains how to reclaim your screen real estate.
Hiding the ribbon
Here are three ways to hide the ribbon:
- Press CTRL + F1 (2007-2013)
- Double-click the active tab (2007-2013)
- Click Customize Quick Access Toolbar, then select Minimize the Ribbon (Word 2007)
The tabs, Office button and QuickAccess toolbar are still in view even though the ribbon is hidden. Add your favorite commands to the Quick Access toolbar so you don’t have to open the ribbon as often.
Even though the most of the controls and commands are tucked neatly out of your way, they are still easily accessible.
Accessing commands while hidden
To access the commands when in hidden mode, click a tab. The ribbon will stay open until you make a selection, then auto-hide from view again.
The ribbon is slightly smaller in Word 2010 and 2013, but if your computer has a small screen, you may still want to hide the ribbon by pressing CTRL + F1 or double-clicking the active tab.
Restoring the ribbon
To restore the ribbon and keep it open, do one of the following:
- Press CTRL + F1
- Double-click the active tab
- Click Customize Quick Access Toolbar, then clear Minimize the Ribbon
Hiding the ribbon helps keep you on task if you are distracted by the brightly colored buttons. You can also try changing the color of the interface instead of hiding it. Silver may be less distracting than the default bright blue.
