How to Format a Table in Word 2007

1. Create and populate data in a table in Microsoft Word.
2. Notice the new 'Table Tools' design tab that appears once the table is created. If the user clicks outside the table then this tab will disappear. This can be confusing at first for those not comfortable with new user interface.
3. Move the mouse over the 'Table Styles' portion of table tools design tab to preview each separate style for the table. This gives a user the option to see what their table will look like without having to actually make the changes.
4. Click on the check boxes located 'Table Style Options' portion of the table design menus to change what each table style incorporates. Checking the boxes will change the shading and coloring for the tables.
5. Choose an individual cell in the table or the entire table to make specific changes or change to the entire table. Click on an individual cell to make formatting changes to that particular cell. Conversely a user can select the four arrowed icon located at the top right corner of the table to make formatting change to the entire table. A user can also make formatting changes to each column or row by clicking the top of the first cell of that row or column.
6. Right click on the mouse when it is positioned over the table to change the text formatting of the table.
7. Select the 'Table Properties' option by right clicking the mouse when it is over the table and clicking on 'Table Properties.' This gives the user a more in-depth and user-friendly opportunity to make changes to the formatting of the table.