How to Add Page Borders in Microsoft Word on an iPad
Question details
The user is attempting to format a document by adding a page border using the Microsoft Word app on an iPad but is unable to locate the feature.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Formatting document layouts and adding decorative or formal borders for styling on a mobile tablet device.
- Observed behavior
- The Page Borders command, which is available in the desktop version of Microsoft Word, is entirely missing from the iPad application's interface.
Ensure your iPad Word document is saved and synced to a cloud storage service like OneDrive or iCloud, as you will need to open it on a computer to apply the borders.
Use Microsoft Word for Windows or Mac
Since the iPad version lacks the Page Borders feature, utilizing the desktop version of Word is the most reliable workaround to apply your desired formatting.
Microsoft currently limits certain advanced layout features on mobile devices to streamline the app interface. Page borders applied on a desktop computer will still be visible when you later view or print the document on your iPad.
In Word for iPad, ensure AutoSave is turned on and your document is saved to your OneDrive account.
Launch Microsoft Word on your Windows PC or Mac, sign in with the same Microsoft account, and open the synced document.
Navigate to the 'Design' tab on the top ribbon, click on 'Page Borders' located on the far right, choose your desired border style, and click 'OK'.
Create a Manual Border Using Shapes
If you do not have immediate access to a computer, you can create a makeshift border directly on your iPad using the Shapes tool.
Submit Feedback to Microsoft
Request the Page Borders feature directly from the developers to encourage its addition in future iPad app updates.
Enjoy Comprehensive Document Formatting with WPS Office
Struggling with missing features in mobile office apps? WPS Office offers a powerful, lightweight, and completely free alternative that seamlessly handles Microsoft Word files while providing rich formatting tools across all platforms.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and install the free desktop version on your PC or Mac.
- 2. Open your file: Launch WPS Writer and open the .docx file you were working on.
- 3. Add borders easily: Go to the 'Page Layout' tab, select 'Page Borders', and apply your custom styling effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see page borders in Word for iPad if someone else added them?
Yes. If a document already contains page borders created on a desktop version of Word, they will display correctly when you open and view the document on your iPad.
Does Word Online have the Page Borders feature?
No, Microsoft Word for the Web (Word Online) currently does not support the Page Borders feature either. You must use the installed desktop applications for Windows or macOS to add or modify them.
Are there any alternative iPad apps that support page borders?
Yes, Apple's native Pages app on the iPad allows you to add borders to shapes and text boxes. However, for full document page borders, using a desktop word processor remains the most efficient method.
Will Microsoft add Page Borders to Word for iPad in the future?
Microsoft regularly updates its mobile applications based on user feedback. While not currently available, submitting a feature request through the 'Help & Feedback' section in the app increases the likelihood of it being added in future updates.
