How to Switch Between Writing in Columns

Working With Columns
1.
Your word processor has unlimited blank pages.
Create a new page. In your word processing software go to File, then click New for a new text document. This will open a blank document which will be your work area. You can, of course, simply begin typing here, but if you are creating a newsletter or some other project you can add cells to hold your graphics or text. Columns are simple to form in your word processing software, and are perfect for adding an 'almost like a newspaper or brochure' look to your finished product.
2.
Your creativity is limited only by your knowledge or skill.
Decide if you want to use tables or formatted columns. There are advantages and disadvantages to both, depending on what you are creating, and personal preferences. Tables, once you learn to work with them, can allow more creative options than formatted columns but are not always the best choice for your project. For some projects, like newsletters, you may want to switch to 'Print Layout View' before you begin.
3.
You can view your project before printing a single page.
Create your table columns. On your menu bar click Insert, then Table and then tell the software how many rows or columns you want. Click OK and they will appear on your page.
4.
Your finished project can look professional.
Create formatted columns. On your menu, go to Format then Columns and there you can choose from preformatted columns, or design your own to your specifications.
5.
For some functions, use your TAB key or mouse.
Use your TAB key, or your mouse, to move between table columns. The TAB key will move your cursor to each table in succession. A mouse click within a table will move your cursor directly to that table. This action is convenient should you wish to switch out a graphic, edit your text or just leave white-space in your project for artistic or aesthetic effect.
6.
Keyboard shortcuts can save you time and frustration.
Use Ctrl+Shift+Enter on your PC keyboard to move between software formatted columns. When you fill up one column with text, your cursor will automatically move to the next column, but sometimes you need to click over before the first column is completely filled. In this case, hold down the Ctrl key and at the same time press the Shift and Enter keys and this keyboard shortcut will take you to the next column, even if there is no text. If there is text in all columns, you may also use Alt+Down Arrow to go to the next column, or Alt+Up Arrow to return to the previous column. Mac users may need to use the 'command' or 'option' key instead of 'control' to complete the shortcut, depending on their program configuration.