INTRODUCTION TO WORD 2007
Preface
Microsoft Word 2007 has new a look and user interface known as the Ribbon. The Ribbon consists of three basic components Tabs, Groups, and Commands that replace the familiar menus and toolbars used in earlier versions. Task oriented Tabs contain Groups of resources and Commands to help accomplish interrelated tasks such as document formatting or page layout.
In addition, a new file structure offers more features than any prior version. However, there is a compatibility issue with earlier versions. Unless the document is saved in the Word 97-2003 format, users of earlier versions are required to download and install the Office 2007 compatibility pack in order to open and edit documents created in Word 2007. Never the less, most users will adapt quickly to the new interface and explore those resources not included in this handout.
About the Ribbon
The Ribbon consists of three basic components Tabs, Groups, and Commands. 
There are seven Tabs by default and each tab has several Groups of related items including Commands.
Other Tabs referred to as On-Demand Tabs appear only when needed them such as when creating tables, drawings, diagrams, and charts and pictures.
Commands are a button or box to enter information or to choose from a menu are accessed by clicking on the down-arrow in the lower right corner of a Group. This will open the familiar dialog box to access more options related to the group. The Ribbon organizes all commands in logical groups under the tab associated with the task.
Customizing the Ribbon
Although the Ribbon interface cannot be replaced with the familiar toolbars or menus used in earlier versions, it can be minimized to provide a larger work area. You may choose from one of the three methods listed below.
How to:
Always Minimized
- Click on the down-arrow located on the Quick Access Toolbar and then on the menu "Minimize the Ribbon." To utilize the Ribbon, click on the required tab and then the related option or command.
- When the task has been completed, the Ribbon will revert to the minimized position.
To restore the Ribbon to the default setting repeat the first step above and then click on the menu "Minimize the Ribbon" to remove the checkmark.
Minimized for a Short Time
- Double click on an active tab to minimize the Ribbon and hide all groups.
- To restore the Ribbon and show all groups double click on any tab.
Keyboard Shortcut
- Press [Ctrl]+[F1] to minimize or restore the Ribbon.
Key Tips
Accessing any command with a few keystrokes is easy when you elect to display Microsoft's KeyTips (Badges). 
There are keyboard shortcuts for every button on the Ribbon that require fewer keys to access.
How to:
- Press the Alt key to display the Badges for the Ribbon Tabs, the Microsoft Office Button, and the Quick Access Toolbar.
- Press the keyboard letter for the KeyTip desired. Then continue pressing letters for the specific command or option.
Press and release the Alt key to cancel your current action and hide the KeyTips.
The Mini Toolbar
Another new feature is the Mini Toolbar that is available in the entire Office 2007 suite.
It provides several quick formatting features that include applying font styles, font sizing, font color, alignment, text color, and bullets.
The toolbar appears in a faded fashion when you select text but becomes solid when you place your pointer on it, therefore allowing you to select an option.
Note: This toolbar cannot be customized.
How to: To turn off the Mini Toolbar
Click on the Office Button and then the Word Options button. - Choose the heading Popular. Next under the label Top Options for Working in Word, remove the checkmark from Show Mini Toolbar on selection.