Do you struggle using tables in Microsoft Word? A Quick Table might help, especially if you are using the same set of table formats across several documents. Go to the Insert tab in the ribbon. Go to Table->Quick Tables, then select a table format you like. Replace the headers and data included in the table…
Do you use “utilize” in technical documents instead of “use”? In most cases, we recommend using the word “use” following the Handbook of Technical Writing and plain language principles. Use will almost always be clearer and less pretentious. When is “utilize” acceptable? According to the Chicago Manual of Style, you can justify “utilize” in the…
To calculate the averages in Table 1, use this method: For the month of January in the Average column, click Ctrl+F9 to get this field: { }. In the brackets, type = 5.5/4: With your cursor in the brackets, click F9 to get the average: 1.38. To double check, right-click in the field and select Toggle Field Codes from the drop down to see the equation, then toggle back for…
Have you ever needed to calculate sums in Word tables but reached for Excel instead? Typically, you might use Excel, input the data there using formulas, and then copy and paste the outputs. Alternatively, you might use the digital calculator app to solve the calculations and plug them into the table. Good news! Microsoft Word…
Struggling with writer’s block? You’re not alone, and the fix is simpler than you think. In this quick video, learn how using a simple outline can unlock your ideas, build momentum, and make writing feel effortless again. Watch till the end for a tip you can use immediately
Warren Buffett was asked a few years ago about one tip he could give graduates just starting their careers: If you can’t communicate, it’s like winking at a girl in the dark — nothing happens. You can have all the brainpower in the world, but you have to be able to transmit it. Training is…
Did you know that, according to Warren Buffett, if you can improve your communication skills, you’ll earn 50% more money? If your employees and peers need to take time out of their day to decipher your communications because they’re so confusing, how much time are they wasting on a regular basis? And if they misunderstand…
Assign a Shortcut to a Style Applying styles to format text keeps formatting consistent and prevents file corruption unlike formatting “manually” using the icons in the ‘Home’ tab. This means opening the style pane, finding the style, then applying it. There is the option of using the style gallery in the ‘Home’ tab, but that…
Is it time to strengthen your document control system? A document control professional can bring a wealth of benefits to a business by improving productivity, increasing profitability, and even streamlining access to crucial safety information—and professional training can help you fully unlock those benefits. Here’s a rundown of document control: what it is, why it’s…
How many times have you wanted to hire a non-traditional employee but couldn’t because they don’t have the prior knowledge necessary? Or wanted to bring in younger workers, but can’t because they simply don’t have the experience of your senior members? One of the biggest downsides to growing or replenishing a workforce is the fact…