On top is what the Ribbon looks like using the traditional mouse-based interface. In the touch-based interface, the icons on the Ribbon are enlarged and there is more space between them, making it easier to tap the one you want without accidentally tapping another. The mouse-based interface is the default. On your touch-based device, click or tap the small icon of a hand with an upright index finger that's on the top left of the screen and you'll be able to choose between a mouse-based or touch-based interface. If you're using a touch-based device, you can change Word's interface slightly to make it easier to use. Word 2013 can be optimized for either the mouse or touch.

(Click image to enlarge.)īeyond the basic look, though, the Ribbon behaves as it did in Word 2010, with a couple of enhancements that we'll get to later. Word 2013 has a flatter look than previous versions of Word.

The Ribbon is now flat instead of three-dimensional, as are all dialog boxes and screens. Even though Word is a traditional desktop app, Word 2013's style follows the basic guidelines that Microsoft has set for its so-called Windows apps (formerly called Metro or Modern apps) that debuted with Windows 8. The most obvious change in Word 2013 is its overall look.

Word 13