Shrink Word document - how it works

In this practical tip, we will explain how to shrink Word documents.

Compress images in the Word document to shrink files

You can shrink Word documents if they contain images.

1. Double-click on the image to be reduced in the Word document
2. You are now in the "Image Tools" - "Format" tab. Click on "Compress images" in the "Adjust" area on the left.
3. Remove the checkmark at "Apply only for this image" to make the change for all images.
4. For "Target output" it is best to choose "E-Mail" to reduce the document size to a minimum.
5. Confirm the change with "OK".
6. Note: You should always make sure to use images in JPG format if possible.

Reduce Word document size further

You can also further reduce the file size of a Word document by making a small setting:

1. Use the "File" tab to select the "Options".
2. In the menu item "Save" you will find the setting "Embed fonts in the file". Remove the check here.

This practical tip relates to Word 2013. In the next practical tip, read how to reduce Word documents to one page.