But when added to the main body of a text document, these additions can significantly distract the reader.

To keep text readable, Microsoft 365 allows users to insert footnotes.

Footnotes are sections that are found in the footer of a page.

By contrast, endnotes are located right at the end of a text or chapter.

In this article, we explain how you can add footnotes and endnotes in Microsoft Word.

Contents Inserting footnotes in Word: step-by-step tutorial Adding endnotes in Word: step-by-step tutorial Formatting footnotes and endnotes Inserting footnotes in Word: step-by-step tutorial Inserting a footnote in Word is quick and easy.

After youve placed a Word footnote, a number in superscript will appear in your text and youll be able to insert the reference text in the footer.

Alternatively, you can add a footnote using the key combination Ctrl Alt F.

Adding endnotes in Word: step-by-step tutorial First, select the text where you want to insert the endnote.

Now click on the References tab and navigate to the Footnotes section.

Once youve inserted the endnote, it will be placed at the relevant position in the text as a superscript number.

Endnotes are auto-formatted by Word and appear as a superscript number at the relevant position.

Alternatively, you can use the following shortcut: Ctrl Alt D.

When placing footnotes and endnotes, the program automatically adjusts the continuous numbering.

Footnotes and endnotes in Word are always numbered continuously.

Formatting footnotes and endnotes In Word, youve also got the option to format and edit footnotes and endnotes.

You can alter the formatting after inserting footnotes in Word.

You can also define the number the footnotes should begin at.

You can access these settings by right-clicking on a footnote or endnote and then selecting FootnoteEndnote Options.

If you want to modify the font size, select your preferred option from the Format menu.

Tip If you want to see all your footnotes and endnotes at the same time, click on the Show Notes button for a full overview.

To remove a footnote or endnote, just delete the superscript number in the main body text.

Word will then automatically adjust the numbering for the following footnotes or endnotes.

Tip For a professional look, academic papers and long reports benefit from including a table of contents.

How To Insert Footnotes In Word