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Office for Mac Issues

How to Create a Booklet with Mirrored Pages in Word for Mac

Aamir Naveed AkramAamir Naveed Akram Oct 12, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user needs to set up a booklet with mirrored margins in Microsoft Word for Mac, but is struggling with varying menu layouts across different software versions.

How to Create a Booklet with Mirrored Pages in Word for Mac
Product
Microsoft Word for Mac
Device & OS
macOS
Scenario
Formatting a document to be printed and folded as a booklet, which requires setting up mirrored margins, specific paper sizing, and correct page orientation.
Observed behavior
The controls and menu locations for booklet settings often change depending on the Word version and macOS release, causing confusion when following online tutorials.
Before you start

Verify your exact version of Microsoft Word for Mac, as interface layouts can vary slightly between updates. It is highly recommended to finish writing and editing your document content before applying the final booklet layout.

Solution 1Recommended

Configure Book Fold Settings in Page Setup

The most reliable way to create a booklet is by utilizing the built-in 'Book fold' option found under the custom margins layout settings.

While Word for Mac interface designs update frequently, the core page layout settings remain under the Layout tab. Selecting the 'Book fold' option automatically switches your document's orientation to landscape and creates the mirrored margins necessary for a printed booklet.

1
Open Layout Settings

Navigate to the 'Layout' tab on the top ribbon. Click on 'Margins' and select 'Custom Margins' from the bottom of the drop-down menu.

2
Select Book Fold

In the Document window that appears, locate the 'Multiple pages' dropdown setting and change it to 'Book fold'.

3
Adjust Margins and Gutter

Configure your paper size as needed. Adjust the inner and outer margins, and specify a 'Gutter' size to add extra space for the physical binding of your booklet.

4
Apply Changes and Print

Click 'OK' to apply the formatting. When you are ready to print, go to File > Print, ensure your printer supports duplex printing, and select 'Two-Sided' printing with short-edge binding.

Configure Book Fold Settings in Page Setup
Menu Variations: If you cannot find 'Custom Margins' under the Layout tab, try clicking 'File' in the top Apple menu bar and selecting 'Page Setup' or 'Document' to locate the multiple pages settings.

Create a Booklet Easily with WPS Writer

WPS Office offers a consistent and highly intuitive interface across macOS and Windows, making it incredibly simple to create and print professional booklets without worrying about changing menu locations.

  1. 1. Open WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office on your Mac and open a new or existing text document.
  2. 2. Access Page Layout: Navigate to the 'Page Layout' tab on the top ribbon and click on the 'Margins' icon.
  3. 3. Open Custom Margins: Select 'Custom Margins' from the drop-down list to open the detailed Page Setup dialog box.
  4. 4. Enable Book Fold: Under the Pages section, find the 'Multiple pages' dropdown, select 'Book fold', and click OK to instantly format your booklet.
Fully compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx) formats, ensuring your layouts stay intact.Consistent page layout and booklet settings that do not jump around between updates.Free, lightweight, and fast to install on any Mac device.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I find the 'Book fold' option in Word for Mac?

Depending on your specific version of Word for Mac, the booklet option might be located under File > Page Setup or File > Document instead of the Layout tab. Ensure your software is updated to the latest version for the most standard interface.

What is a gutter margin and why do I need it for a booklet?

A gutter margin adds extra blank space to the center fold of a document you plan to bind. It ensures that your text isn't hidden or obscured by staples or stitching when the booklet is physically folded and bound.

How do I print my booklet correctly once it is formatted?

To print a booklet properly, go to File > Print, select 'Two-Sided' printing, and choose 'Short-Edge binding'. This ensures that the pages flip correctly like a book rather than flipping upside down.

Does booklet formatting permanently change my original document layout?

Selecting 'Book fold' alters the document's current layout by changing the orientation to landscape and scaling two pages to fit onto a single printed sheet. You can always revert it by changing the 'Multiple pages' setting back to 'Normal'.