How to Open Two Word Documents in Separate Windows

When working with Microsoft Word documents, it is often useful to have multiple documents open in separate windows at the same time. Whether you are working on a project that requires multiple files or simply need to compare content, this guide will show you how to open and manage two Word documents in separate windows.

Opening Two Documents in Separate Windows

The most straightforward way to open two Word documents in separate windows is to double-click on each document. This method works when you already have both documents saved on your computer or on a network drive.

Double-click on the first document  Double-click on the second document

You can manage the placement of these windows as you see fit. Simply drag the window edges until they are positioned the way you prefer. This allows you to maximize your screen space and keep your work environment organized.

Alternative Method: Using the View Menu

If you have multiple tabs or documents open in one window, you can also separate them into separate windows. One way to do this is by using the 'View Side by Side' option in the View menu. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Open the Word application. Navigate to the 'View' menu. Click on the 'Arrange All' option. Select 'View Side by Side'.

Once you have selected 'View Side by Side', each document will open in its own window. You can then drag the windows to your preferred locations on the screen for a more productive work environment.

Managing Your Documents in Google Drive

While you can open multiple Word documents on your local machine, if you rely on shared drives such as Google Drive, managing these documents becomes even easier. Here are some recommendations for working with documents in Google Drive:

Emailing Yourself a Blank Document: If you need a new document to work on and you are not on your local machine, you can email yourself a blank Word document. You can find templates in the Google Drive templates section, which includes a range of professional and personalized templates. Saving Your Document: Whichever method you use to open or create a document, make sure you save it regularly. The best practice is to save both your documents in a drive, such as Google Drive, where you can easily access and collaborate on them.

Conclusion

Opening two Word documents in separate windows can greatly enhance your productivity, especially if you are working on multiple projects or need to compare different documents. Experiment with the methods described here to find the approach that works best for you. As you become more familiar with these techniques, you will find it easier to manage your documents efficiently, improving your overall work flow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I open a document from Google Drive in a new window in Word?

To open a document from Google Drive in a new window in Word:

Navigate to your Google Drive. Select the Word document you want to open. Click on the 'Open with' option and choose 'Microsoft Word'. This opens the document in a new window.

Can I view Word documents side by side on Google Drive?

While Google Drive itself does not have a built-in function to view documents side by side, you can use the 'View Side by Side' option in Word to display multiple documents side by side, even if they are stored in Google Drive.

What should I do if I forget to save my Word document before closing it?

If you forget to save your Word document before closing it, you will be prompted to save any changes you have made before leaving the document. It's a good habit to save your document frequently, especially when working on projects that require you to switch between multiple files. Regularly saving your work helps prevent data loss in case of unexpected interruptions.