how do i edit a table in MS word

To edit a table in Word, use one of these approaches depending on what needs changing.

1. Edit text or fields inside a table cell

• Click inside the cell and type to change the text.
• If the cell contains a field (for example, a merge field) and it is hard to see or edit because the cell is narrow:
  1. Right-click the field code in the cell.
  2. Select Edit Field.
  3. In the Field dialog, select Field Codes.
  4. In the Field codes box, make the required changes and select OK.

2. Edit table layout and properties (alignment, row height, column width, cell options)

• Click anywhere inside the table.
• Press F6 until focus is on the table tools (you will hear or see Table Design or Layout tab, depending on platform and assistive tech).
• If needed, switch to the Layout tab.
• On the Layout tab, select Properties to open Table Properties.
• Use the tabs in Table Properties to edit:
  • Table: overall alignment and positioning
  • Row: row height and options
  • Column: column width
  • Cell: cell-specific options
  • Alt Text: accessibility text for the table
• Confirm changes with OK.

3. Adjust table structure (add/delete rows or columns)

• Place the cursor in the row or column to change.
• Use the Layout tab (under table tools) to choose options such as Insert Above/Below, Insert Left/Right, or Delete rows/columns.

If the issue is specifically that the field code fills the cell vertically or is not fully visible, use the Edit Field method above instead of relying on SHIFT+F9 in a narrow cell.

References:

• You are unable to edit a merge field in a table cell in Word
• Use a screen reader to insert a table in Word