In this post , we will share a couple of methods for adding background color to MS Word table.
2 Ways to Add Background Color to a Table in MS Word
- Using the Shading button.
- Using the Borders button.
Method 1: Using the Shading button.
This is a straightforward method and lets you quickly add a background color to the whole table.
Step 1: Open Word document.
Step 2: Select the table.
Click anywhere in the table. A Table Selection Icon will appear at the top corner.
Click on this icon to select the whole table.
Alternatively, you can do the Click and Drag method. Put your cursor on any end of the table. Then click and drag your mouse pointer to the opposite end.
Step 3: Locate the Shading button.
Clicking on the table selection icon will display a Horizontal Context Menu.
You will find a Shading Button there.
Click on Shading and select the color you want.
2 more ways to access shading button
You may also access shading button by:
- Table Tools – Design -> Shading
- Home – > Shading
These will work as well, just make sure that you have selected the table where you want to apply the background color.
Method 2: Using the Borders button.
Using border shading will also allow you to add background color with pattern.
Step 1: Open Word document.
Step 2: Select the table.
Click anywhere in the table. A Table Selection Icon will appear at the top corner. Click on this icon to select the whole table.
Step 3: Locate the Borders button.
Clicking on the table selection icon will display a Horizontal Context Menu.
You will find the Borders Button there.
Click on that button. A dialogue box will appear.
Click on the Shading tab. Under the Fill section, you should see a drop-down button. Click on this and choose the color you want for your table.
There 2 more ways to access Borders button
You may also access shading button by:
- Table Tools – Design -> Borders & Shading
- Home – > Borders & Shading
These will work as well, just make sure that you have selected the table where you want to apply the background color.
Removing the Background Color of a Table in MS Word
Simply go to Shading Button, where you will see an option for “No Color”. Clicking that button removes the background color.
Conclusion
Adding background color to a table is quite easy. We hope you found this article helpful.