Formatting Issues

How to Format a Word Content Control with the Strong Style

Natalie TaylorNatalie Taylor Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to apply the 'Strong' text style to a specific content control in a Microsoft Word document to emphasize the text entered into it.

How to Apply the Strong Style to a Word Content Control
Product
Microsoft Word
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Customizing the appearance of developer content controls or forms in a document template.
Observed behavior
The user needs a reliable method to ensure the text typed into a content control always carries the Strong style formatting.
Before you start

Ensure that the Developer tab is enabled in your Microsoft Word ribbon, as you will need it to insert and access the properties of content controls.

Solution 1Recommended

Apply Strong Style via the Styles Gallery

The quickest way to format an existing content control is by selecting it and applying the style directly from the Home tab.

1
Select the Content Control

Click on the content control in your document so that the entire bounding box is highlighted.

2
Open the Styles Gallery

Navigate to the Home tab on the top ribbon of Microsoft Word.

3
Apply the Strong Style

Locate the Styles group and click on the 'Strong' style option to apply it immediately to the control.

Apply Strong Style via the Styles Gallery
Easy Document Formatting

Easily Format Text and Forms with WPS Writer

WPS Office offers a comprehensive Writer tool that seamlessly handles Microsoft Word documents, including text styles and form fields. You can easily apply emphasis and professional formatting to your document controls for free.

  1. 1. Open your Document: Launch WPS Writer and open your .docx file containing the text or forms.
  2. 2. Select the Element: Highlight the text or form field you want to format.
  3. 3. Apply the Style: Go to the Home tab and choose your desired style, such as Strong or Bold, from the Styles gallery.
  4. 4. Save the File: Save your document, maintaining perfect formatting compatibility with Microsoft Word.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a content control in Word?

Content controls are specialized elements you can add to a document, such as drop-down lists, date pickers, or text boxes. They are commonly used to create interactive forms and standardized templates.

Why is the Developer tab missing from my ribbon?

By default, the Developer tab is hidden in Microsoft Word. You can enable it by going to File > Options > Customize Ribbon, and then checking the 'Developer' box in the right-hand column.

Can I apply custom styles to a content control?

Yes, you can apply any built-in or custom style you have created. Simply select the custom style from the Styles gallery or configure it as the default in the content control's properties.

Does applying a style change the placeholder text formatting?

Yes, if you apply the style directly via the Styles gallery, it affects the placeholder text. However, if you set it via the properties ('Use a style to format text typed into the empty control'), the placeholder text remains in its default formatting until the user types new content.